New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test

Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Fight and Its Implications

Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of an intense contest held in London last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.

Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six consecutive victories, but placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.

Positive Test and Possible Outcomes

A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.

His promotion team issued a statement declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."

Professional History

The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.

The fighter became a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps under esteemed mentor former champion Lee in recent years.

Recent Developments

Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet Usyk until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.

Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.

• Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
• The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
• The fighter could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
• His representatives published a statement addressing the positive test.
• A review is now in progress about the situation.