UFC champion Jon Jones has reportedly checked himself into rehab after testing positive for cocaine. Jones failed a drug test prior to this past weekend’s highly touted matchup with Daniel Cormier in UFC 182.
The drug test detected benzoylecgonine, a primary metabolite of cocaine.
“At this point and time, Jones checked himself into a rehab center, and we’ll cross that bridge when he get to it,” Bennett told MMAjunkie when asked of the NSAC’s plans.
Bennett said any further comments should be directed at the UFC or Jones. UFC officials could not immediately be reached for comment.
The bigger question is why Jones was allowed to fight despite failing the test prior to UFC 182. Despite not being a banned substance, it still raises some eyebrows.
The UFC and the organization’s president Dana White have issued statements regarding Jones’ decision to enter rehab,
STATEMENT FROM THE UFC:
“We support UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones’ decision to enter a drug treatment facility to address his recent issue. While we are disappointed in the failed test, we applaud him for making this decision to enter a drug treatment facility. Jon is a strong, courageous fighter inside the Octagon, and we expect him to fight this issue with the same poise and diligence. We commend him on his decision, and look forward to him emerging from this program a better man as a result.”
STATEMENT FROM DANA WHITE, UFC PRESIDENT
“I am proud of Jon Jones for making the decision to enter a drug treatment facility. I’m confident that he’ll emerge from this program like the champion he truly is.”
Though, it says that the UFC was “disappointed in the failed test,” there is no explanation as to why the UFC made no mention of the failed test prior to UFC 182. Jones also issued a statement regarding his addiction.
Checking into rehab is a pretty drastic move. Hopefully for Jones and his family, the treatment will be successful.