The news of Jon Jones’ hit-and-run accident continues to be a central topic for discussion in MMA circles. Following the emergence of details regarding the situation, including allegations that Jones possessed marijuana in the car, and ran off with handfuls of cash in his pockets, the former UFC champion has arguably suffered a significant blow to his brand and image.
Fighters, champions, and even pundits continue to express satisfaction with the UFC’s decision to strip Jones of his light-heavyweight title. However, most also empathized with Jones and wished him a speedy recovery.
Surprised by the entire series of events, UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson was the latest fighter to offer his two cents on the matter.
“When I first heard the news I couldn’t believe it, just because it’s like…. Jon Jones hit and run, marijuana in the car, you know pregnant women, broken arm,” Johnson told Submission Radio. “And I was like, ‘well this can’t be good’. So with that being said, it’s a very unfortunate situation. I obviously do think the UFC did the right thing. The UFC is probably one of the best organizations in the world when it comes to mixed martial arts, and it’s taking care of its athletes.”
Given that this was not Jones’ first run-in with law enforcement, Johnson believes the UFC’s decision to strip the champ of his title will allow Jones the time needed to focus on his own recovery.
“This hasn’t been the first time Jon Jones has been in trouble with the law. I mean let’s not forget, the man crashed the 400,000 dollar Bentley that the UFC bought him. You know I ain’t got a 400,000 dollar Bentley, but they bought him one and he crashed it.
“So I think they did the right thing by stripping him of his title, suspending him, and letting him take care of things that are important, which is him getting himself sober – 110 percent sober – and him focusing on life again and taking care of his family and leaving the drugs alone. So I think they did the right thing. I think with him trying to defend his title in more than a week, it just wouldn’t have helped him in that cause of trying to get healthy.”
Transcription taken from Submission Radio.
About the author
