‘I’m really sorry’ Jon Jones gives first interview since cocaine controversy

Photo courtesy FoxSports1

UFC champion Jon Jones gave his first interview Monday night since testing positive for cocaine last month. Jones, who sat down with Fox Sports 1 appeared prepped and ready for the camera and the barrage of tough questions.

He admitted that he knew he was not going to pass the Dec. 4 test, but didn’t tell anyone, including his coaches.

“I knew it would come out positive, I knew there was nothing I could do about it,” Jones said.

He went on to add that as the fight approached the thought crossed his mind that maybe the test had not picked up on it as no one had said anything to him.

When asked why he did cocaine in the first place, he couldn’t really find an answer but simply said, ‘I don’t have an excuse. I did it.’

“A coward would come up with an elaborate reason or blame. I’m not gonna do it. I messed up,” Jones said.

It wasn’t until after the fight that he received a call from UFC President Dana White with the bad news.

Jones insists that he is not an addict, claiming that he did cocaine a few times in college and then again at a party. He claims he doesn’t know what came over him and that he doesn’t have a problem with drugs.

“I know I don’t have a problem, there’s no room in my life to be a cocaine addict,” he said.

When asked why he went to rehab, Jones admits that it was a collective decision between him and his business partners. The plan was for Jones to enter rehab for qualified doctors to determine what kind of treatment he needed, if any. He says he entered a 24-hour drug program and after several hours of evaluation by multiple doctors they recommended an outpatient treatment, which includes weekly random drug tests.

“I was caught with my pants down,” Jones said. “This whole situation has been really embarrassing.”

He was adamant that he has never taken performance-enhancing drugs, and doesn’t think this incident will ruin his image in the sport.

“I’m really not too worried about myself right now. I’m worried about my fans. I’m sorry, I’m really sorry,” he said.

Throughout the interview Jones appeared shamed, humbled and apologetic.

Jones has been fined $25,000 for his positive drug test, but no other action has been taken.

-This article originally appeared on Houndsports.com

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