UFC legend Jon “Bones” Jones faces a messy exit from the sport as new criminal charges emerge just days before his shocking retirement announcement. The heavyweight champion’s abrupt departure now appears clouded by allegations of fleeing the scene of a car crash after a night of drugs and alcohol with a female companion.

Criminal Charges Surface As Jones Exits UFC

Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, announced his retirement from the UFC this week amid new legal troubles that threaten to tarnish his legacy. The timing of Jones’ departure has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike, as it coincides with misdemeanor charges filed against him in Bernalillo County for allegedly fleeing the scene of a car accident in February.

According to court documents, the incident involved a significantly intoxicated woman who claimed Jones was driving when they crashed, after which he allegedly fled the scene. The woman reportedly told authorities she had been consuming alcohol and mushrooms with Jones prior to the accident, adding another controversial chapter to the fighter’s checkered history outside the octagon.

Jon Bones Jones The Belt Bandit pic.twitter.com/VwAhcn2naU

— UFC King🇺🇸 (@UFCFriedChicken) June 8, 2025

The timing of these charges could hardly be more suspicious, coming just as Jones informed UFC executives of his intention to retire and relinquish his heavyweight championship belt. A bond arraignment hearing has been scheduled for July 24, where Jones will have to face these allegations head-on despite his apparent attempt to step away from the spotlight.

This isn’t Jones’ first brush with the law or controversy, as his career has been repeatedly marred by outside-the-cage incidents including a previous hit-and-run and multiple failed drug tests. Despite these issues, Jones has maintained an almost untouchable record in the octagon at 28-1, cementing his place in UFC history even as his personal conduct raises questions.

Details Of The Alleged Incident Emerge

The criminal complaint filed against Jones contains troubling details about the February incident that led to the current charges. According to law enforcement, a man believed to be Jones was contacted at the scene but refused to confirm his identity and appeared heavily intoxicated at the time of the confrontation.

When officers arrived at the scene of the accident, they found a woman in the passenger seat who was described as significantly impaired. She claimed Jones had been driving the vehicle and fled after the crash, leaving her behind to deal with the aftermath of their alleged night of partying.

From April 12, 2008 to June 21, 2025: Jon Jones has officially retired from MMA.

One of the greatest to ever do it. A career full of dominance, championship victories, and undeniable skill. Love him or hate him, the sport will never see another like Jonny Bones. 🐐#UFC pic.twitter.com/A405n2uf9C

— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) June 21, 2025

The complaint further alleges that the man at the scene made concerning statements about employing “lethal force through third parties,” though the exact context of these threats remains unclear. When Jones was finally interviewed days after the crash, he reportedly confirmed that the woman had left his house in an intoxicated state but provided little additional information about his own involvement.

The crash reportedly occurred three days before the charge date of February 24, giving Jones ample time to consult with legal representation before authorities were able to formally question him about his role in the incident. This timeline raises questions about potential attempts to obfuscate evidence or testimonies related to the case.

Jones Announces Retirement Amid Controversy

As the legal troubles were brewing behind the scenes, Jones took to social media with a carefully crafted statement announcing his retirement from the sport that made him famous. “This decision comes after a lot of reflection, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve experienced over the years,” Jones wrote, making no mention of his pending legal issues.

In his statement, Jones reflected on his accomplishments rather than addressing the controversy, saying: “From the first time I stepped into the Octagon, my goal was to push the boundaries of what was possible in this sport. Becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending my title against some of the best fighters in the world, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans across the globe—these are memories I’ll cherish forever.”

“Becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending my title against some of the best fighters in the world, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans across the globe—these are memories I’ll cherish forever. I’ve faced incredible highs and some tough lows, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger, both as a fighter and as a person.”

UFC CEO Dana White confirmed Jones’ retirement in a press conference, noting that Jones had relinquished his heavyweight championship belt. White seemed caught off guard by the decision, commenting, “The fight was done, why he’s retired, I don’t know,” suggesting that even the UFC’s top brass may have been unaware of the brewing legal situation that coincided with Jones’ sudden exit.

The retirement comes amid a standoff over a potential fight against UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who has now been promoted to undisputed champion following Jones’ departure. Many fans and analysts have speculated that Jones was avoiding the matchup with the younger, hungry challenger, though the new legal troubles may provide a more compelling explanation for his timing.

Legacy Tarnished By Recurring Controversies

Jones’ exit from the UFC represents a complicated end to one of the most dominant yet controversial careers in combat sports history. His in-cage accomplishments are nearly unmatched, with his only loss coming via disqualification for illegal downward elbows in a fight he was dominating, yet his legacy will forever be complicated by his behavior outside the octagon.

Throughout his career, Jones has repeatedly found himself in legal trouble, including a 2015 hit-and-run incident involving a pregnant woman that resulted in Jones being stripped of his light heavyweight title. He has also failed multiple drug tests over the years, testing positive for performance-enhancing substances and recreational drugs alike, leading to suspensions and more stripped titles.

Jones’ last fight in the UFC was a TKO victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, a performance that showcased his continuing dominance even as he aged in the sport. Many fans had hoped to see Jones take on the challenge of facing Aspinall, who has been tearing through the heavyweight division, before hanging up his gloves, but it appears that both legal and perhaps competitive concerns have led Jones to choose retirement instead.

While Jones may be walking away from the sport on his own terms in one sense, the cloud of this new criminal charge ensures that his exit will be as controversial as much of his career has been. As the July court date approaches, MMA fans will be watching closely to see if this truly marks the end of Jon “Bones” Jones in the public eye, or if it’s simply another chapter in his tumultuous story.

Sources:

Jon Jones retires from UFC with heartfelt message as fresh legal trouble shadows final exit

Jon Jones hit with new criminal charge amid UFC retirement news

UFC fighters react to Jon Jones’ retirement, controversy – MMAWeekly.com