Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon “Bones” Jones is back in the spotlight—but this time not for his knockouts, but for legal troubles. In mid-August and early September, the American fighter faces two separate hearings on a hit-and-run charge that could seriously affect his career and reputation.
Incident Background
The roots of the case go back to the night of 24 February 2025. According to Albuquerque police, a vehicle allegedly driven by Jones collided with another car. Witnesses claim the athlete left the scene on foot, leaving a half-dressed and presumably intoxicated passenger in the cabin. Only on 17 June did police officially charge the champion under the article “Leaving the scene of an accident.”
Two Court “Rounds”
The first hearing is scheduled for 14 August. It will address the basic offence—fleeing the scene without causing serious bodily harm. The second session will take place on 2 September and will additionally consider a phone-threats episode: investigators allege Jones repeatedly called the victim, intimidating her after the crash. Both proceedings will be held as bench trials, meaning the judge will render the verdict without a jury.
Career: From Dramatic Exit to Lightning Comeback
The sporting storyline is no less dramatic. On 21 June Jones announced his retirement and voluntarily relinquished his title, but just twelve days later filed paperwork to re-enter the USADA testing pool, opening the path to a possible bout in 2026. Such a sudden reversal raised many questions: was the “retirement” announcement sincere or an attempt to buy time ahead of the upcoming court case?
Jon Jones vs. the Law: A Long Record of Violations
Unfortunately, the current accusations are far from “Bones” first clash with law enforcement. His record already includes a DUI in 2012, a notorious 2015 hit-and-run involving a pregnant woman, lockdown street racing in 2016, and a 2020 arrest on allegations of battery and firearm possession.
Possible Consequences for the Champion's Legacy
Even if Jones gets off with probation or a fine, the very fact of yet another trial hits his public image almost as hard as a direct blow in the cage. The UFC has previously faced reputational risks related to the star's behavior, and now the promotion must balance the fighter's commercial appeal with ethical concerns. Should the court find Jones guilty and impose real punishment, his future bouts could be in serious doubt, while debates over his status as “the greatest of all time” may take on a far more critical tone.
