UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones was expected to appear court on Tuesday in Albuquerque but instead reached a plea deal.
Jones faced two misdemeanors charges for his alleged conduct on March 30 involving two Drug Free Sports International testing agents. The agents went to Jones’ New Mexico residence to collect a urine sample. Jones was accused of taking one of the agent’s phones and making threatening comments. He denied the allegations and entered a not guilt plea to the charges in July.
On Tuesday, the case came to a resolution. Jones reached a plea deal where the charges would be dropped upon completion of anger management classes within the next 90 days.
Jon Jones releases statement after plea deal
Following his lawyers reacting the plea deal, Jones released a statement via social media maintaining his innocence.
“I would like to extend my thanks to the justice system for reaching a prompt resolution in this matter, which affirms my innocence and enables me to maintain my focus on the upcoming fight,” Jones wrote on X.
“I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to defend my heavyweight title on November 16th at Madison Square Garden.”Jon
I would like to extend my thanks to the justice system for reaching a prompt resolution in this matter, which affirms my innocence and enables me to maintain my focus on the upcoming fight. I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to defend my heavyweight title on November 16th…
— BONY (@JonnyBones) October 29, 2024
Jones is scheduled to face former two-time champion Stipe Miocic in the UFC 309 on Nov. 16 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It will be his first heavyweight title defense.