UFC issues official statement on Jones doping; the fighter's team also speaks out

Jones is provisionally suspended from the UFC (Photo: reproduction/Facebook UFC)

The UFC commented on the case of Jon Jones, caught, this Tuesday (22), in another anti-doping test carried out by USADA. Through an official note, the organization clarified that the test in which 'Bones' tested positive was carried out the day before the clash, on July 28th, but did not provide further information regarding the length of time the fighter could be suspended.

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“The UFC was notified this Tuesday that USADA (American Anti-Doping Agency) informed Jon Jones about a possible anti-doping policy violation derived from a sample collected after his weigh-in on July 28, 2017.

USADA, the independent administrator of the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, will be responsible for managing the results and appropriate adjudication of this case involving Jones, in connection with the UFC Anti-Doping Policy and future UFC participation. In accordance with the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, there is a full and fair due process afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed. The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) also maintains jurisdiction over this matter, as the sample collection was performed the day before Jones' fight at UFC 214 in Anaheim. The State of California and USADA will work to ensure that the CSAC has the information necessary to determine the appropriate adjudication of Jones' potential anti-doping policy violation.

Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process progresses.”

Jon Jones' team speaks out 

Jones' team also commented on the case, without removing the blame from the athlete. According to an interview with the American website 'MMA Fighting', Jon will receive the support he needs to overcome this complicated moment in his career.

“We are all completely speechless right now. Jon, his trainers, his nutritionists and his entire camp have worked tirelessly and meticulously over the last 12 months to avoid this exact situation. We are getting samples retested to determine expiration or source of contamination. Jon is devastated by this news and we are doing everything we can as a team to support him.”