UFC News: Jon Jones Tests Positive For Cocaine; Enters Drug Rehab Facility

Jon "Bones" Jones announced on January 6 that he recently checked himself into a drug treatment facility.

He made the announcement just a few days after defeating Daniel Cormier in the main event of UFC 182 on January 3 at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas.

The random drug test was conducted by the Nevada Athletic Commission on Jones on December 4, 2014, where he tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a major metabolite in the illegal drug cocaine. Benzoylecgonine is not banned outside competition, so Jones cannot be penalized or prevented from participating at UFC 182 by the commission, despite the results.

A second test was conducted late in December 2014, which Jones passed.

NSAC executive director Bob Bennett confirmed the rehab news to ESPN. He said, "Jones has checked himself into a rehab center. And at this time, I would direct any further questions regarding his situation to Mr. Jones or the UFC."

Jones, through his lawyer, issued a statement to 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."

Deadspin.com reported that the UFC also issued a statement regarding Jones:

"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."

UFC President Dana White said in the same ESPN report about Jones, "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."

Reebok, a new Jones sponsor, also praised Jones, "We commend Jon for taking the necessary steps to address this issue, and we will support him in any way we can. The status of Jon's relationship with Reebok has not changed."