UFC Champion Jon Jones Enters Rehab After Testing Positive for Substance Commonly Found in Cocaine (Update)

It's a stunning move for the defending champion.

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Just days after defeating Daniel Cormier in UFC 182, UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones announced a stunning decision today: the world-class fighter is entering drug rehab after testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a chemical found in cocaine. The test took place on December 4, and while Jones was able to pass a follow-up test shortly thereafter, the champion has apparently declined to hide behind the second result. 

Per Yahoo Sports:


"With the support of my family, I have entered into a drug treatment facility. I want to apologize to my fiancée, my children, as well as my mother, father, and brothers for the mistake that I made. I also want to apologize to the UFC, my coaches, my sponsors and equally important to my fans. I am taking this treatment program very seriously. Therefore, at this time my family and I would appreciate privacy." 

The UFC has yet to make a comment on the story. Stay tuned for more details.

UPDATE: 

From UFC.com


STATEMENT FROM THE UFC: 


“We support UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones’ decision to enter a drug treatment facility to address his recent issue. While we are disappointed in the failed test, we applaud him for making this decision to enter a drug treatment facility. Jon is a strong, courageous fighter inside the Octagon, and we expect him to fight this issue with the same poise and diligence. We commend him on his decision, and look forward to him emerging from this program a better man as a result.”


STATEMENT FROM DANA WHITE, UFC PRESIDENT


“I am proud of Jon Jones for making the decision to enter a drug treatment facility. I’m confident that he’ll emerge from this program like the champion he truly is.”

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