UFC legend Jon Jones was charged with leaving the scene of an accident just days before publicly announcing his retirement from the sport.
Court documents reveal that the Hall of Famer was charged on June 17th with hit-and-run, specifically for departing the site of an accident that did not result in serious injury or death.
The incident reportedly took place in New Mexico on February 24th. The police report indicates that a woman was discovered in the front passenger seat of one of the vehicles involved in the accident.
According to the report, the woman showed signs of significant intoxication and was not fully clothed from the waist down.
She reportedly told police that Jones was driving and fled the scene on foot before contacting him.
A police aide who spoke to the person believed to be Jones by phone stated they seemed heavily intoxicated and made remarks suggesting the potential use of lethal force via others.
During this conversation, Jones reportedly did not identify himself directly and allegedly made veiled threats of violence.
In his own interview with police, Jones claimed the woman was intoxicated when she left his residence earlier that day.
He stated she called him after the crash and handed the phone to an officer, whose “unprofessional language” allegedly caused Jones to question the officer`s authenticity.
Jones, aged 37, has a history of legal issues related to driving.
In 2015, he faced felony hit-and-run charges after colliding with two vehicles, including one driven by a pregnant woman, and fleeing on foot.
Jones, who has multiple past DUI offenses, pleaded guilty to leaving the scene and received 18 months of probation for the 2015 incident, resulting in him being stripped of his light-heavyweight title.
This significant news emerged on the same day Jones declared he would not be facing Britain`s Tom Aspinall in a highly anticipated heavyweight title unification bout and was retiring from MMA.
He wrote:
“Today, I am officially announcing my retirement from the UFC.”
“This decision follows significant reflection, and I wish to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I`ve had over the years.”
“From my first step into the Octagon, my aim was to push the limits of what is possible in this sport.”
“Becoming the youngest UFC champion ever, defending my title against top fighters globally, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans worldwide – these memories I will cherish always.”
“I`ve encountered incredible highs and challenging lows, but each obstacle taught me something valuable and strengthened me as both a fighter and an individual.”
“I thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my family, coaches, teammates, and all the fans who supported me throughout every chapter.”
“Your steadfast support and belief in me have been my bedrock.”
“To my fellow fighters, thank you for pushing me to be my best and for the mutual respect we shared inside and outside the cage.”
“As I conclude this phase of my life, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges.”
“MMA will always be a part of who I am.”
“And I am eager to see how I can continue contributing to the sport and inspiring others in new ways.”
“Thank you all for being part of this amazing journey with me. The best is yet to come.”
