UFC’s Jon Jones Charged with 2 Misdemeanors in Case Involving Sample Collector

Joseph Zucker@@JosephZuckerFeatured Columnist IVJuly 15, 2024

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Authorities in New Mexico charged UFC star Jon Jones with two misdemeanors stemming from a random drug test at his home in Albuquerque, according to MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin.

Crystal Martinez, an agent for Drug Free Sport, filed a police report alleging Jones took her cellphone from her and threatened her. He’s facing an assault charge along with interference with communications.

Per NBC News’ Dennis Romero, Martinez said Jones became angry when she suggested he could take a blood test due to the fact he was unable to provide a urine sample. The former light heavyweight champion then allegedly took her phone and began recording her, declining to give the phone back when she asked for it.

Martinez also alleged that Jones told her and her colleague that people who enter his home “end up dead.”

Jones denied the allegations in a since-deleted statement on Instagram.

“I want to address reports about me allegedly threatening a drug tester’s life and taking a phone,” he said (via ESPN’s Brett Okamoto). “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.”

Martin noted the 36-year-old could face fines totaling up to $1,500 and jail time of no more than one year if convicted on both misdemeanors.

Jones hasn’t fought since his victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in March 2023. He was scheduled to oppose Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 but had to withdraw last October due to a torn pectoral tendon.