Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test

Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding during a drugs test conducted on the day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Implications

Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling bout held in London last October to determine the next next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.

Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but placed his shot at the title at stake during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.

Positive Test and Implications

A routine test administered to Joseph Parker via Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.

Parker's promotional company published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming for now."

Professional History

The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.

Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and moving to Dublin for fight camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.

Recent Developments

Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.

Following Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.

• Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
• The examination took place through Vada the day of the bout.
• Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
• His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the positive test.
• A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.