Sports
UFC Champion Jon Jones Arrested After Altercation with Drug Testing Agent
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones was taken into custody on Saturday in Albuquerque following an alleged altercation with a drug testing agent, as reported by local police.
The incident stemmed from a complaint filed by Crystal Martinez, a sample collection worker, who detailed a confrontation at Jones’ residence during the early hours of March 30. Martinez, employed by Drug Free Sport International, which is contracted by the UFC, accused Jones of assault and making death threats towards her.
According to Martinez, she and a colleague, Jerome Romero, arrived at Jones’ home for a surprise drug test, during which Jones reportedly became agitated and displayed hostile behavior. Martinez claimed that Jones initially struggled to provide a urine sample, prompting tension to escalate.
Allegedly, Jones proceeded to threaten legal action against the sample collectors, expressing frustration with the testing process. Martinez stated that Jones appeared inebriated and made menacing remarks during the encounter, causing her to fear for her safety.
An officer who reviewed a video recorded by Martinez on her phone described Jones using offensive language and making threatening comments towards the sample collectors. Despite Martinez’s pleas, Jones reportedly refused to return her phone, which heightened her sense of unease.
Following the incident, Martinez reported feeling compelled to press charges against Jones, though her superiors advised patience and deference to the UFC’s response. Jones, however, denied the allegations, labeling Martinez as untruthful and emphasizing that the situation had ended amicably.
In his statement to the police, Jones acknowledged his frustration but denied any physical threats, maintaining that he merely voiced concerns about the early hour of the visit. He also criticized Romero’s conduct during the incident, alleging a breach of privacy regulations.
Jones, who has a history of legal troubles, including prior arrests and suspensions for doping violations, was served a summons for charges of assault and interference with communications. The incident marks another chapter in the tumultuous career of the renowned UFC champion.
