Lewis Hamilton's long-standing commitment to animal rights reportedly led to an unexpected fallout with UFC great Jon Jones, who has revealed that the seven-time Formula 1 world champion blocked him after a controversial hunting video surfaced in 2021.
Jones recently recounted the incident, saying Hamilton privately criticised him over footage showing the former UFC light heavyweight champion hunting a wild boar from a helicopter during a trip in Texas.
Jon Jones says Lewis Hamilton called him a 'coward'
Speaking about the episode, Jones said Hamilton reached out after watching the video and questioned both the method of the hunt and the ethics behind it.
"I went hunting years ago with a bunch of Army Rangers, and we ended up hunting pigs from a helicopter using AR-15s," Jones said.
According to
Jones, Hamilton told him that "only a coward could shoot an animal from a helicopter" and argued that if someone was going to hunt, the animal should at least have "a chance to fight back. "
Jones added that Hamilton suggested hunting with traditional methods, such as a bow and arrow, instead of using firearms from a helicopter.
Lewis Hamilton unfollowed and blocked Jones
The conversation reportedly marked the end of any connection between the two athletes.
"He unfollowed me, and he blocked me, and it sucked because I was his fan," Jones said. "I was a fan of him, but he was very disappointed in me for shooting. "
Hamilton has not publicly commented on Jones' latest remarks.
The Ferrari driver has long been an outspoken advocate for animal welfare and environmental causes. A vegan since 2017, Hamilton has frequently used his platform to campaign against animal cruelty and promote sustainable living.
Jon Jones apologised after the backlash
The hunting footage sparked widespread criticism when it was first posted in January 2021.
At the time, Jones defended his actions by saying the meat from the wild pig was donated to an underprivileged family.
"I apologize if this video makes some of you guys uncomfortable; at the same time I'm excited for my shipment of meat to get to Albuquerque," Jones wrote after the backlash.
"I took my time with that first shot to make sure the animal did not suffer. Bet half you guys that are offended eat sausages and bacon on a daily basis. "
Two sporting icons with contrasting values
Hamilton and Jones are widely regarded as among the greatest athletes in their respective sports, but the episode highlighted their contrasting views on animal welfare.
While Jones has maintained that the hunt was conducted responsibly and served a practical purpose, Hamilton's reported response reflected the values he has consistently championed throughout his Formula 1 career.
More than five years after the incident, Jones admits the exchange remains memorable-not because of the public criticism, but because it came from an athlete he admired.
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