UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has accepted a legal agreement to attend anger management classes, closing two misdemeanor charges that surfaced from a recent drug test at his New Mexico residence. The arrangement was announced in court Tuesday, ending the need for a bench trial that had been scheduled for the day.
Agreement Details
Under the terms of the agreement, Jones will complete four hours of anger management and adhere to all laws for the next 90 days. The two charges—one of assault (a petty misdemeanor) and another for interference with communication—will be dismissed if these conditions are met. Jones, who had initially pleaded not guilty in July, maintained that the allegations were ungrounded, expressing surprise at what he perceived as unprofessional conduct from a drug-testing official involved.
Background of the Incident
This case stems from an April visit by representatives from Drug Free Sport International to conduct a drug test at Jones’ home. According to a criminal complaint, Jones initially cooperated but allegedly became agitated during the test. The female tester later reported feeling threatened by Jones’ behavior and filed a complaint with the Albuquerque police.
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Jones responded to the allegations, acknowledging his frustration and conceding that he used inappropriate language. He later provided video evidence from his home security system that showed the tester giving him a high-five before departing, claiming it demonstrated that she did not feel threatened during the encounter.
Jon Jones: Champion and Controversy
Jon Jones is widely regarded as one of the top talents in MMA, holding a record-breaking 14 title wins in the light heavyweight division before claiming the heavyweight title in March 2023 with a first-round submission victory over Ciryl Gane. Jones’ heavyweight career now continues with an anticipated title fight against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 on November 16 at Madison Square Garden, a bout previously delayed due to Jones’ pectoral injury.
Despite his achievements, Jones has had his share of controversy. In 2016, he faced a year-long suspension for a failed drug test and had a 2017 win against Daniel Cormier overturned after testing positive again. Jones contended that later changes to U.S. Anti-Doping Agency regulations would have cleared him had they been in place at the time.
Closing a Chapter
This latest agreement to undergo anger management allows Jones to focus on his upcoming fight and keep his legal record clear of the recent charges. As the UFC champ works through this personal and legal chapter, his November 16 clash with Miocic marks a critical next step in his heavyweight career.
