UFC Light Heavyweight Jon Jones (21-1) has allegedly been involved in a hit and run car accident in New Mexico, early Sunday morning.
While no details have yet been confirmed, numerous media reports indicate the 27-year-old fighter was in an accidentally and allegedly ran a red light while under the influence. It has also been reported that cocaine was found on the scene.
Albuquerque Police tweeted about the incident, stating that the investigation was ongoing.
At this stage his UFC 187 title defence scheduled for May 23 against Anthony Johnson (19-4) is still on, however Jones may be pulled from the card should allegations turn out to be true.
This incident wouldn’t be Jones’ first controversial moment as champion. Shortly after his successful UFC 182 title defence against bitter rival Daniel Cormier (15-1), it was discovered that he tested positive for benzoylecgonine in his system prior to the bout.
Benzoylecgonine is the main metabolite of the drug cocaine.
He was fined $25,000 for violation of the UFC athlete’s code of conduct, and spent just 24 hours inside a drug rehabilitation facility.
Jones was just 23 when he defeated Mauricio Rua (22-10) to become the youngest champion in UFC history, and is currently ranked as the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
The UFC is yet to comment on the incident, but there are many who will keep and eye out for their statement on the biggest star in mixed martial arts.
Alex L
Roar Rookie
The UFC has actually been pretty inconsistent historically in applying standards -- a look at the different reactions to the Sherk and Barnett suspensions (which were virtually identical) for example, Sherk got a title shot when he came back while Barnett got the boot.
AZ_RBB
Guest
Charge upgraded to felony. Woman in the other car suffered a broken arm but her pregnancy is OK. Arrest warrant has been issued and last I heard he hasn't handed himself in.
AZ_RBB
Guest
UFC used to pride itself on its integrity. It is becoming more and more like boxing every day.
Isaac Nowroozi
Roar Guru
He's the golden boy, and one hell of a fighter. It would take A LOT for him to get stripped of that belt.
Isaac Nowroozi
Roar Guru
One day. Poor effort on his part. Did it just for looks.
Isaac Nowroozi
Roar Guru
Can't argue with that. Kind of like the Mayweather of MMA.
Ken
Guest
So the one day rehab he attended wasn't effective? What a surprise.
Alex L
Roar Rookie
Jones is a good fighter but pretty much all evidence points to him being a pretty mediocre human being.
AZ_RBB
Guest
Should have been kicked out for the substance abuse. Hard to say much about this rumour until there's more concrete information. Hope it's nothing. Hit and run is a low act.