In the wake of tuesday’s devastating news, Jon Jones pre UFC 214 test coming back positive for PED’s, we’re all bit taken aback, clenching our collective guts from the sting of an all too familiar blow.
The dark agent in question this time being—Turinabol, an out of production steroid, known more commonly throughout the world of bodybuilding than the realm of professional sport.
With everyone hoping the worst was indeed untrue, UFC president Dana White said of Jones, “It’s unbelievable, brutal. It’s Brutal.”
When questioned as to what would happen with the light-heavyweight title, he reiterated that he would not say anything yet, but the outlook was not optimistic.
If the judgement stands, Jones could be looking at yet another suspension. Possibly up to four years, not withholding punitive fines that may reach well into tens of thousands of dollars.
All this being said, what does his possible withdraw and suspension mean for the the UFC, as the league struggles to retain its dimming star power? With Conor stopped in the tenth by Floyd, and high-level talent the likes of Rory MacDonald, Phil Davis and Matt Mitrione exiting for Bellator, is the UFC in for a tougher year than expected?
As it stands, the under hyped return of Georges St Pierre against current middle-weight champ Michael “The Count” Bisping, is seemingly all one has to look forward to.
Inasmuch as the league would wish to maintain the pace of its current ascension, will we see the development of new faces and personalities, or will the organization rely on the crutch of the familiar? The easily reached speed-dial with its all too recognizable names—anyone seen Rhonda?
