Ex-UFC champ Jon Jones released from jail after probation rap

MANILA, Philippines – The New Mexico Judicial District Court has released Jon Jones from jail after being arrested for violating his probation and being cited for 5 traffic infractions.

Jones was taken into custody on Wednesday, March 30 (Manila time) as he is currently serving an 18-month supervised probation sentence, which was part of a September 2015 plea agreement stemming from a hit-and-run incident.

The court issued a warrant of arrest after Jones was ticketed for drag racing, having a modified exhaust, swerving between lanes, exhibitionist driving and obscuring his license plates’ registration.

The 28-year-old fighter appeared before presiding judge Michael Martinez on Friday, April 1 (Manila time).

Martinez warned Jones that things will be worse if he finds himself in trouble again as the former UFC light heavyweight titleholder received several new conditions for his probation.

The judge ordered Jones not to drive a vehicle without the stamp of approval from his probation officer but surprisingly placed no travel restrictions on him as a condition of his release.

Jones will also have to take up anger management classes as well as perform 60 hours of community service.

Despite Jones’ recent legal troubles, the UFC 197 headliner on April 24 (April 23 in US) will remain intact as he is slated to face Daniel Cormier in a light heavyweight championship rematch.

However, the UFC released a statement expressing its disappointment over the matter.

“The organization was disappointed to learn that Jones was cited for several traffic offenses last week, as well as concerned by the nature and tone of portions of the conversation between Jones and the citing officer,” UFC wrote. “Jones’ scheduled bout on April 23 will proceed as planned, however, Jones understands that the UFC expects him to fully cooperate with the terms of his probation as set forth by Judge Martinez.” – Rappler.com