Jon Jones charged following alleged altercation with drug-testing agent

Jon Jones, the UFC’s heavyweight champion, has been charged with two misdemeanours amid allegations made by a drug-testing agent following a March sample collection at the athlete’s residence, according to reports. 

Jones, who turns 37 this week, has been charged a petty misdemeanour for assault as well as another misdemeanour for interference with communications, MMA Fighting said.  He is scheduled to have a virtual bond hearing on Wednesday. If convicted of both charges, the possibility of jail time is open along with fines estimated to be in the region of $1,500.

The charges stem from a March 30 sample collection during which Jones “appeared agitated,” according to comments made by collection agent Crystal Martinez. She also claims that Jones took possession of her phone at one point, and engaged in intimidating behaviour.

Jones has vigorously contested the allegations against him.

“I was recently visited by testers while I was celebrating a birthday and taking a nap,” Jones said in an April statement. “Upon waking up, I was caught off guard by the unprofessionalism and protocol by one of the testers, which caused frustration leading me to use some profanity I regret. However, I want to emphasise that at no point did I threaten, get in anyone’s face, raise my voice to anyone, or engage in any form of assault.

“It’s unfortunate that false news has been spread without proper fact-checking. I want to assure you that I will vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations. The truth is, the incident simply did not occur.”

Further details of the case will be established in Wednesday’s hearing.