UFC Faces FBI Investigation Over Suspicious Betting Activity

The UFC is facing significant scrutiny following a fight involving Isaac Dulgarian, a heavily favored fighter who lost unexpectedly in the first round to underdog Yadier del Valle. UFC CEO Dana White revealed that the organization consulted with the FBI after integrity monitors flagged suspicious betting activity prior to the fight.

According to Sports Betting Dime, the UFC was alerted by its betting integrity partner, IC360, about unusual betting patterns, particularly a sudden influx of bets on del Valle to win and on a first-round finish.

This raised red flags for several sportsbooks, leading them to take the event off their betting boards and refund bets placed on Dulgarian. White stated he met with the FBI twice after the fight and communicated with their director regarding the situation.

He described the scenario as concerning, emphasizing that the UFC takes integrity seriously and warned against any potential fight-fixing. "It doesn't look good, it definitely doesn't look good," White said, acknowledging that while there is no direct proof of wrongdoing, the circumstances are alarming.

The Nevada Athletic Commission is reportedly withholding Dulgarian's fight purse pending further investigation. Deadspin corroborates that Dulgarian's loss was particularly shocking given his status as a -250 favorite, and his dismissal from the UFC occurred shortly after the fight.

The incident mirrors a recent NBA betting scandal involving players manipulating game outcomes, further intensifying the focus on integrity issues within sports betting. White reiterated that every fight is monitored by IC360, and they are currently conducting a thorough review of the Dulgarian versus del Valle bout.

As of now, the investigation continues, and the UFC is cooperating fully with federal authorities to ensure the integrity of their fights and betting markets.