On Tuesday afternoon, it was revealed that Jon Jones failed a UFC 214 in-competition drug test. And since this is not the first time that this has happened, fighters and fans alike have already thrown flak at the current light heavyweight champion.
The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has yet to complete their examination and draw a definite conclusion on the matter. Which is why they are urging the public to keep their assumptions to themselves in the mean time, since Jones remains innocent until he is proven otherwise.
A USADA spokesperson sent a statement to MMA Fighting on Wednesday.
We can’t comment on an on-going case, but importantly all athletes under the UFC anti-doping program are innocent unless and until the established process determines otherwise. As part of this process, Mr. Jones is given the opportunity to be heard, confront and cross examine the evidence and have the ultimate decision of whether he violated the rules or not be decided by independent judges. It’s only fair to let due process occur before drawing any conclusions about Mr. Jones.
Jones’ manager Malki Kawa also released a lengthy statement on Facebook, maintaining that his client did not cheat, and strongly condemned those who have already cast their judgment.
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