Jon Jones opens up about his alcohol use throughout his career: 'I really enjoyed it'

Jon Jones at an event. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/jonnybones

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One of the most successful names in MMA history and considered by many to be the greatest fighter of all time, Jon Jones also experienced a series of unpleasant situations outside the octagon. In an interview with Ring magazine last Thursday (16), the former Ultimate light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) and heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg) champion admitted to having lost opportunities due to his hectic lifestyle.

When asked about regrets or moments when he should have acted differently, Jones didn't mention technical aspects or career decisions, but rather his conduct in his personal life. According to him, his party-loving lifestyle significantly hampered his legacy in the world's most famous octagon.

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“Well, you know, I really enjoyed the party life when I was younger. And sometimes I wonder, ‘Jon, where would you have gotten if you had never started drinking?’ I feel like all my setbacks in life have been directly linked to alcohol. I’ve managed to accomplish incredible things and reach extraordinary heights, but I feel like I could have gone much, much further if I had never gotten into that party life. So, to all the young athletes listening: stay balanced, know how to control the situation. I think that’s what I would say,” he stated.

When Jon Jones defended his title by submitting Lyoto Machida with a standing guillotine choke back in 2011. pic.twitter.com/OgLmUo3mkE

— Boxing Archives (@boxing_archives) July 22, 2026

Jones has already lost the belt due to conduct outside the octagon.

Jon Jones attended a court hearing. Photo: Reproduction

Among so many controversies, perhaps the most striking occurred in April 2015. On that occasion, the fighter caused a traffic accident with another car, resulting in a broken arm for the driver, who was pregnant. Jones, who was under the influence of substances such as alcohol, was arrested and lost his light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg).

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