UFC Strips Jon Jones of his Champion Title after Arrest
UFC has decided to strip light heavyweight champion Jon Jones of his title on Tuesday, one day after the fighter turned himself into police custody.
Jones, 27, was the lead suspect of the hit-and-run case that involved three vehicles in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The accident left one pregnant woman with a broken arm.
"He's very disappointed. He's upset. He wanted to go down as one of the greats or the greatest," UFC president Dana White said on "Fox Sports Live" of Jones. "He's disappointed, but it is what it is. It is the decision we had to make. For us to go in and have to strip him of his title and suspend him is not fun, but you know what they say: The show must go on."
On Tuesday, Jones showed up at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court for a felony first appearance. His attorney, Vincent Ward, requested the removal of any travel restrictions, which was granted by Judge Maria Dominguez.
Jones and his representatives met with UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, chief operating officer Lawrence Epstein and White on Tuesday afternoon. Hours after the meeting, UFC announced that Jones would be stripped of his title. Jones is the first champion in the history of the sport to be stripped of his title due to disciplinary reasons.
"UFC feels strongly that its athletes must uphold certain standards both in and out of the Octagon," UFC said in a statement. "While there is disappointment in the recent changes, the organization remains supportive of Jones as he works through the legal process."
"Got a lot of soul searching to do," Jones posted on his official Twitter account. "Sorry to everyone I've let down."
Jones has also been suspended indefinitely and will not fight against Anthony Johnson at UFC 187 on May 23 in Las Vegas. Instead, Daniel Cormier will have the opportunity to contend for the title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
