Jon Jones Tests Positive For Cocaine, Checks Himself Into Drug Treatment Facility

In the span of three days, UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones just went from the highest of highs to about as low as a professional athlete can go.

Just days after Jones emerged victorious from his 182 title fight against bitter rival Daniel Cormier it was revealed he had failed his pre-fight drug test after testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a primary metabolite of cocaine. As a result, Jones announced he would be checking into a drug treatment facility.

“With the support of my family, I have entered into a drug treatment facility,” Jones told Yahoo! Sports. “I want to apologize to my fiancée, my children, as well as my mother, father, and brothers for the mistake that I made. I also want to apologize to the UFC, my coaches, my sponsors and equally important to my fans. I am taking this treatment program very seriously. Therefore, at this time my family and I would appreciate privacy.”

Since the Nevada State Athletic Commission follows the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, Jones was not suspended due to the fact to benzoylecgonine is not considered a banned out-of-competition substance. As a result, the NSAC could not enforce any penalties ahead of the highly anticipated fight card.

The UFC would later release a statement commending their 205-pound champion for his decision to seek help

“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.”

“I am proud of Jon Jones for making the decision to enter a drug treatment facility,” added UFC President Dana White.  “I’m confident that he’ll emerge from this program like the champion he truly is.”