Jon Jones tests positive for cocaine, enters rehab

MANILA, Philippines – Good news on fighter Jon Jones turned bad following the release of his failed drug test results in the heels of a successful bout and his inclusion in Forbes Magazine’s list of “brightest young stars” in sports, according to a report by ESPN.

The report said Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) executive director Bob Bennett confirmed that Jones tested positive for benzoylecgonine, an indicator of cocaine use.

The drug results were released following Jones’ successful 8th title defense in UFC 182 and his inclusion in Forbes’ “30 Under 30: The Sports World’s Brightest Young Stars.”

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight champion has checked himself into a rehab center.

The UFC issued a statement on Jones saying, “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,” the organization added.

A lab report indicated the test was conducted on December 23 and is considered as out-of-competition, ensuring the result of his recent bout against Daniel Cornier will stand.

After pulling off 6 impressive victories in his initial run as a mixed martial arts practitioner, Jones (21-1) made his first appearance under the UFC bright lights in August 2008 and immediately cemented his position as a light heavyweight contender for the organization’s world title.

Since his title-winning feat against Rua, the 6-foot-4 “Bones” went on by beating the likes of Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Lyoto Machida, Rashad Evans, Vitor Belfort, Chael Sonnen, Alexander Gustafsson and Glover Teixeira.

While he has had his share of controversial moments outside of the cage, including his full-fledged brawl with Cormier in August 2014, Jones has proven to be one of the greatest talents in MMA history and currently sits atop of UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings. – with reports from Nissi Icasiano/Rappler.com