UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has reached an agreement to have two misdemeanor charges dismissed stemming from an incident at his home earlier this year.
On Tuesday, Jones appeared with his counsel for a virtual hearing with the Bernalillo County court in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The UFC fighter faced misdemeanor charges of assault and interference with communications after a March 2024 incident with a representative from Drug Free Sport International. The inspector, Crystal Martinez, was sent to Jones’ home to procure a sample from the athlete and she alleged that Jones threatened her and confiscated her phone.
Martinez added that she was threatened when Jones allegedly told her, “Why you f*cking people come so early? Do you know what happens to people who come to my house? They end up dead.” She added that she believed Jones was intoxicated.
Jones denied the allegations but admitted to using foul language but did not utter any threats.
I want to clarify that there is a video showing both drug testers leaving my home after the testing session, where we exchanged a high five and a hug. Although I was frustrated with the unprofessionalism and used profanity out of frustration it ended friendly and amicably, nothing threatening at all. I was actually celebrating a friend’s birthday party at my home, and I believe it’s perfectly normal to celebrate in the comfort of my own home.
I must say, this particular tester behaved quite unprofessionally and even breached standard protocol along with HIPAA laws. Throughout my 20 years of being subjected to drug tests, I have never encountered such an incident with a DCO officer before.
Judge Asra I. Elliott approved the dismissal of the charges on the condition that Jones attend four hours of anger management courses and must stay out of legal problems for the next 90 days.
Jones issued a brief statement after the hearing:
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. I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to defend my heavyweight title on November 16th at Madison Square Garden.
Jones will return to the Octagon against Stipe Miocic on November 16 where he will defend the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 309.
