Cormier Demands UFC Strip Jon Jones Of Heavyweight Championship

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 22, 2025

4.1

Share

Cormier Demands UFC Strip Jon Jones of Heavyweight Championship After Positive Drug Test

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier is calling for the immediate stripping of Jon Jones' heavyweight title following reports of a positive drug test. The controversial news has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts (MMA) world, reigniting long-standing debates about Jones' past transgressions and the UFC's handling of performance-enhancing drug (PED) violations.

The revelation comes just weeks after Jones' dominant victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285, a fight that saw him claim the vacant heavyweight championship. Cormier, a long-time rival and respected analyst for ESPN, has been particularly vocal in his criticism, taking to social media to express his outrage and demand immediate action from the UFC.

"This is unacceptable," Cormier stated on his ESPN show. "Jon Jones has a history of this, and the UFC needs to send a clear message. Stripping him of the title is the only appropriate response." He went on to highlight the damage such actions do to the integrity of the sport, emphasizing the need for stringent anti-doping policies.

<h3>A History of Controversy</h3>

Jon Jones' career has been plagued by repeated PED violations, stretching back to his early years in the UFC. Previous positive tests have resulted in suspensions and significant setbacks, yet he's consistently returned to claim championship glory. This latest incident, however, seems to be pushing even the most ardent Jones supporters to question his legacy.

• 2011: Failed drug test for marijuana prior to UFC 135.
• 2014: Failed drug test for cocaine prior to UFC 182.
• 2017: Failed drug test for Turinabol, resulting in a lengthy suspension and stripped championship.
• 2021: Failed drug test for a banned substance, leading to further controversy.

This pattern of behavior, according to Cormier and many others within the MMA community, necessitates a firm and decisive response from the UFC. The lack of consistent punishment in the past has been widely criticized, with many feeling that the organization has been too lenient on Jones.

<h3>The UFC's Response – Awaiting Official Confirmation</h3>

As of yet, the UFC has not released an official statement regarding the alleged positive drug test. The organization is reportedly awaiting confirmation from the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) before taking any official action. However, the pressure is mounting, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder by the minute.

The silence from the UFC only fuels speculation and further emphasizes the need for decisive action. The delay is seen by many as an indication of a potential cover-up, adding fuel to the already raging fire of controversy surrounding Jones and his career. The longer the UFC waits to respond, the more damage is done to the sport's reputation and credibility.

<h3>What Happens Next? The Future of the Heavyweight Division</h3>

The potential stripping of the heavyweight title leaves the division in a state of uncertainty. Several contenders are vying for a shot at the championship, and the UFC will need to determine how to proceed in the coming weeks. Possible scenarios include:

• Immediate title vacancy: The UFC declares the heavyweight title vacant and organizes a tournament or a title fight between the top contenders.
• Interim champion: An interim champion is crowned to fight Jones upon his return (assuming the violation is confirmed and he serves a suspension).
• No action taken: A highly unlikely but possible scenario that would further damage the UFC's credibility.

Regardless of the UFC’s decision, this situation underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining the integrity of professional sports and the need for robust anti-doping programs. The future of Jon Jones' career and the heavyweight division hangs in the balance, awaiting the official confirmation and subsequent actions from the UFC and USADA. The MMA world watches with bated breath.

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on this situation? Share your opinions in the comments below!