Jon “Bones” Jones has avoided jail time for a hit-and-run in New Mexico that left a pregnant woman injured, and nearly wrecked the biggest pay-per-view of the year for the UFC. The ex-light heavyweight champion pleaded guilty to one count of leaving the scene of an accident, and received 18 months probation.
Jones’ lawyer called the ordeal a “wake up call,” for Jones, and the fighter released a statement regarding the matter that contained an apology, but did not address a return to the octagon.
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“My actions have caused pain and inconvenience in the lives of others and for that I am truly sorry and I accept full responsibility. I have been working hard during this time away from my sport to grow and mature as a man and to ensure that nothing like this happens again,” Jones wrote. “I am not sure what the future holds for me but I plan to continue to do the work needed to be productive and successful in every aspect of my life."
If Jones does come back, UFC president Dana White, who was present for Jones’ plea, has several options.
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Ryan Bader (19-4)
Bader has already faced – and lost to – Jones in 2011, but lately he’s shown a ton of improvement. Bader was the logical choice to face Daniel Cormier in Cormier’s first title defense, but instead was passed over in favor of Alexander Gustafsson. While Gustafsson is the bigger name, Bader appeared to have the more complete, recent, resume.
A fight vs. Jones is a tough draw, but it would also be a high-profile fight. If he was able to win it, he would immediately get a crack at the title, and could potentially be favored.
Ovince St. Preux (18-7)
OSP is a physical beast, whose performances in the ring don’t always match his upside. A technician like Jones makes for a very difficult matchup for OSP, but the pairing makes sense for Jones’ comeback. OSP has the tools to test Jones, but he lacks the savvy and discipline to win. This fight would allow Jones to get in good, competitive work, and then be ready for a title showdown.
Daniel Cormier (16-1)/Alexander Gustafsson (16-3)
This isn’t cheating. This fight will determine the light heavyweight champion on October 3, and Jones may be allowed to step right back into action and get a shot to reclaim his title. Since Jones never lost the belt –he was stripped –a healthy portion of the mixed martial arts community considers him the “real” champion. He has beaten both Cormier and Gustafsson, and both have been vocal about badly wanting a rematch.
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