Dana White gives grim statement on Jon Jones’ future

Last night, news broke that UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones had failed a drug test in the lead-up to his UFC 214 title fight with then-champion Daniel Cormier. In the wake of this unfortunate development, UFC President Dana White partook in a brief media scrum at the Ultimate Fighter Gym in Las Vegas, Nevada.

During this scrum, White shared his initial thoughts on Jones latest failed test:

“It’s brutal,” White said (via MMAJunkie.com).  “It’s unbelievable. I’m sure I feel the same way every one of you felt when you heard. I always know what to say. I don’t know what to say about this one.”

White then touched on what this could mean for Jones’ fighting future. His comments were quite bleak.

“If it ends up getting two or three [drug violations], it might be the end of his career,” he said. “So to talk about his legacy, it’s probably the end of his career.”

The UFC boss also explained what is likely to happen to the light heavyweight title if Jones indeed tests positive. In his opinion, the title should go back to Cormier – though he assures Jones will receive his due process before any decision is made.

“As far as I’m concerned, Cormier would be the champion [if Jones is suspended by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency],” White explained. “The only guy he’s ever lost to in his whole career is Jon Jones. He was the champ; he’s the champion if Jones isn’t.”

“It’s not over yet. He’s got to go through the process. Maybe there was something crazy for this stuff to get in his system.”

What do you think another failed drug test will mean for Jon Jones’ legacy and fighting future? Is Dana White right? Join the conversation in the comments section!

This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 8/23/2017.