Jon Jones releases statement following USADA suspension: “Comeback season begins now”

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones has released a lengthy statement after finally being served a fifteen-month suspension from USADA.

Jones suspension stemmed from a failed drug test that occurred in July of 2017 just prior to his rematch with Daniel Cormier at UFC 214.

Following tonight’s ruling, Jon Jones is now eligible to return to action on October 28 of this year.

That means “Bones” could potentially headline November’s UFC 230 event in his home state of New York.

With that said, UFC President Dana White has already come out and stated that the promotions plan is not to have Jon Jones main event UFC 230 at Madison Square Garden.

Shortly after tonight’s big news, Jon Jones took to Twitter where he issued the following statement on his imminent octagon return.

It’s difficult to express myself at this moment but I can definitely say my heart is filled with gratitude and appreciation. I want to thank all of you who have stood by me during the toughest stretch of my life.

— BONY (@JonnyBones) September 20, 2018

“It’s difficult to express myself at this moment but I can definitely say my heart is filled with gratitude and appreciation. I want to thank all of you who have stood by me during the toughest stretch of my life.” – Jon Jones

It has meant the world to me and always will. But now is the time to shift the focus front and center to the road ahead. Greatness is what I’m chasing and the path to reclaiming my throne is now officially open. Comeback Season begins now

— BONY (@JonnyBones) September 20, 2018

“It has meant the world to me and always will. But now is the time to shift the focus front and center to the road ahead. Greatness is what I’m chasing and the path to reclaiming my throne is now officially open. Comeback Season begins now.” – Jon Jones

Not everyone was in high spirits following tonight’s Jon Jones suspension news. Current UFC “champ champ” Daniel Cormier lashed out at both USADA and Jon Jones after catching wind of the news.

In fact, a number of different fighters weighed in on tonight’s Jon Jones suspension news which culminated in some very mixed reactions.

What did you think of the fifteen-month suspension that USADA handed down on Jon Jones? Share your thoughts on the subject in the comments section PENN Nation!