Jon Jones may find reprieve from his misdemeanor charges related to a drug test altercation if he complies with the court’s latest directives.
According to a recent report by MMA Junkie’s Nolan King, a bench trial on Tuesday in Albuquerque, New Mexico led to an agreement between the defense and prosecutors to dismiss charges against “Bones,” stemming from an alleged hostile incident during a drug test at his New Mexico residence.
The court has mandated that the charges of assault, a petty misdemeanor, and interference with communication, a misdemeanor, will be dismissed, provided the reigning UFC heavyweight champion completes his anger management classes and remains law-abiding for the next 90 days.
Jones faced two misdemeanor counts arising from a random drug test conducted in July. The charges were prompted by a police report filed by Crystal Martinez, an agent with Drug Free Sport International, who accused the UFC superstar of seizing her mobile phone and issuing threats against her.
During that encounter, “Bones” informed the police that he had apologized for using foul language toward the woman and her colleague at the conclusion of the drug test. He also released footage on social media from what appeared to be a home surveillance system, capturing the moment the testing agent gave him a high-five before departing.
Jones has not competed in the Octagon since his first-round submission victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in March 2023. He is poised to make his inaugural title defense against Stipe Miocic in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 309, scheduled for November 16 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Following the court’s ruling, the former UFC light heavyweight champion took to X to release a statement praising the efficiency of the legal process that cleared him of the charges.
“I would like to extend my thanks to the justice system for reaching a prompt resolution in this matter, which affirms my innocence and enables me to maintain my focus on the upcoming fight,” Jones tweeted. “I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to defend my heavyweight title on November 16th at Madison Square Garden.”