J. Jones (photo) is no longer the UFC champion. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
The controversial traffic accident in which Jon Jones getting involved last weekend cost the American fighter dearly. On Tuesday night (28), early Wednesday morning in Brazil, the UFC announced, through an official statement (read below) that it has stripped Jones of the light heavyweight title and will suspend the fighter for an indefinite period of time.
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Ultimate's decision puts an end to the longest reign ever seen in the competitive 93 kg division, of which Jones had been champion since 2011. “Bones” became the youngest champion in UFC history at the age of 23, defeating the then owner of the belt Mauritius Shogun by technical knockout.
After that, Jones broke records by defending his title eight times, including victories over former champions Lyoto Machida, Quinton Rampage Jackson, Rashad evans e Vitor belfort. In his most recent defense, in January, he took away the unbeaten record of Daniel Cormier, at UFC 182.
The UFC also announced that Cormier will be Jones' replacement in the 187th event, which will be held on May 23 in Las Vegas (USA). The fight between Cormier and Anthony Johnson will define the new owner of the linear belt in the light heavyweight division.
The accident
Jones was involved, last Sunday morning (26), in a traffic accident in the city of Albuquerque, where he lives and trains. According to witnesses, the UFC champion ran through a red light and collided with two cars, one of which was driven by a pregnant driver. The fighter fled the scene on foot, without providing assistance to the victim.
To make matters worse, Albuquerque police found marijuana in Jones' vehicle, as well as a pipe used to consume the drug. Almost two days later, Jones presented himself to the police to provide clarification, but was eventually released on bail. Thus, the fighter will respond to the process freely.
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Official UFC statement on the Jon Jones case
The UFC announces that it has suspended Jon Jones indefinitely and stripped of his light heavyweight champion title as a result of violations of our organization's code of conduct.
Jones was recently arrested in Albuquerque on charges of leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries. As a result of the indictment and other violations of our code of conduct, the organization believes it is best to give Jones time to focus on his pending legal matters.
The UFC strongly believes that its athletes must respect certain standards inside and outside the Octagon. Although it is recent disappointment, the organization continues to support Jones through the legal process.
With this decision, UFC determined that the number 1 contender Anthony Johnson now he will fight with the number 3 challenger Daniel Cormier for the light heavyweight belt at UFC 187, May 23, in Las Vegas.
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