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Thursday, Sep 20, 2018

Dana White Comments on Jon Jones’ USADA Suspension, Plans For Return

Jon Jones (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Although Jon Jones will be eligible to compete by the end of October, UFC President Dana White is targeting the beginning of 2019 for the former light-heavyweight champ’s return.

On Wednesday it was reported that Jones has been handed a 15 month, retroactive suspension from USADA, for testing positive for a steroid metabolite last July. Jones and his team claimed that the fighter did not knowingly take any type of banned substance, and argued a tainted supplement was likely behind the positive test. An independent arbitrator ruled that there was no intention on the star’s part to take performance enhancing drugs. Jones is also reportedly providing information on another athlete’s USADA case.

In a follow up interview with ESPN, White said he’s targeting the beginning of 2019 for Jones’ return (quote via MMA Fighting):

“He’s been off for awhile. I think he’s a little heavy right now and he needs to start cutting weight and getting back into shape and we should see him early next year.”

Jones stopped now light-heavyweight and heavyweight champ, Daniel Cormier at UFC 214 last July. But, due to Jones’ positive test, the bout was ruled a no-contest.

posted by FCF Staff @ 10:43 am
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