Joseph Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination conducted on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker participated in an intense bout held in London in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to meet Usyk following stringing together a notable six wins in a row, yet put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil since then, having eight matches in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him as the top contender to challenge Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress regarding the case.
