The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a doping test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling bout in London in late October to establish who would become WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer through Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a communique stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder in 2016 before he lost his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps with esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A review has been in progress into the matter.
