Arguably the greatest UFC fighter ever is back

Jon Jones has officially been reinstated by the UFC.

The former UFC light-heavyweight champion of the world has returned to the UFC after his ban. Jones was forced to relinquish his belt and was indefinitely banned from competing after his role in a hit and run in which a pregnant woman broke her arm. Bones pleaded guilty to the charges and was given 18 months of supervised probation and will be required to make 72 youth outreach/charity appearances. He also avoided fines and fees. The UFC released the following statement announcing his return to the promotion:

Following a review of the plea agreement reached by Jon Jones and officials in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the judge’s decision, UFC announced today the formal reinstatement of Jones to the UFC roster. Effectively immediately, Jones is eligible to return to competition. As such, UFC expects Jones to meet all of the terms of his plea agreement, including mandatory community service, as a condition of his reinstatement. UFC is currently discussing with Jones a potential date for his return to the Octagon. “We've made it clear to Jon that this new opportunity to compete in UFC is a privilege and not a right, and that there are significant expectations we have regarding his conduct moving forward," said UFC Chairman and CEO Lorenzo Fertitta. “We’re happy to read and see reports that he has embraced the terms of his plea agreement and is using this experience to grow and develop as a person.” “I am thankful to be able to do what I love once again and I look forward to proving myself as a champion in and outside of the Octagon,” Jones said.