Poll: Should Jon Jones Get Immediate Title Shot If He Returns?

Former UFC light-heavyweight champion Jon Jones is going through the darkest period of his illustrious career right now. He’s been dropped by sponsors, blasted by his peers and stripped of his hard-earned title belt. It all stemmed from the now notorious hit-and-run in New Mexico.

“Bones” obviously needs to get his affairs in order, so perhaps the time away will be therapeutic. His upcoming battle with the legal system may be gruelling, but there’s always the chance he comes out relatively unscathed. The former pound-for-pound king could well be back in action within the year.

So what if he does, who should he fight when he returns, or should he get an immediate title fight? Jones was such a dominant, longstanding champion that he would have got an immediate rematch had he lost a close decision, or been forced away with long term injuries, but his behaviours outside of the octagon somewhat stifled his work.

As a result, many fans are saying the Greg Jackson product should have to start over in the division, if he ever returns. Has JJ paid his dues in the UFC, or should he have to prove himself all over again?