The horrible month for Nike continues.
The Nevada State Athletic Commission voted unanimously to fine UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones $50,000 for his role in a brawl with Daniel Cormier nside the lobby of the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino on August 4. In addition to his hefty fine, Jones was ordered to complete 40 hours of community service, and has since confirmed that he was dropped from his endorsement deal with Nike.
While it's not known exactly how much Jones deal with Nike was worth, Ofir Ventura, a lawyer for Jones, said the deal was “over six figures” per year.
"I made us all look bad as a champion," Jones said. "It was a terrible thing in a very heated moment. I've never done anything to discourage the sport. I make a very conscious effort to be a great example. It's embarrassing for me. I realize it comes with consequences and, as a man, I've come to accept them."
Jones isn't the only athlete to be dropped by Nike recently, as Ray Rice, and Adrian Peterson both saw their endorsement deals with the Swoosh terminated after off the field legal troubles. Although this isn't as serious an offense as Rice or Peterson, it's clear Nike is drawing a line in the sand, and expects all their athletes to live up to a certain code.
Let us know what you think of Nike dropping Jones in the comments, and if you think dropping a fighter for, well fighting, is warranted.
[ESPN]
RELATED: Nike Suspends Adrian Peterson’s Endorsement Deal
RELATED: It Took Nike 82 Weeks to Officially Drop Oscar Pistorius’ Sponsorship Deal
