UFC Releases One of Its Fighters After Betting-Oddity, Launches Full Investigation

The UFC seems to be becoming involved in the huge betting scandal that’s affecting other sports. Multiple sources say that the biggest MMA promotion in the world cut Isaac Dulgarian’s matches, two days after he lost by submission in the opening round against Yadier del Valle at Fight Night from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

Isaac Dulgarian entered his fight at UFC Vegas 110 on Nov. 1 as a heavy favourite (approximately –250) against Yadier del Valle. But in the hours before the bout, the odds shifted dramatically — Dulgarian closed at around –130, while del Valle surged toward +110. Multiple sportsbooks halted wagers when unusually large bets poured in on del Valle and first-round prop bets.

Blowout Loss Raised Further Questions

The fight ended in a quick rear-naked choke submission at 3:41 of round one — an outcome commentators labelled as “white-belt stuff” for such a pro. The surprising finish, combined with the odd betting pattern, prompted the promotion to take swift action.

Just two days post-fight, the Ultimate Fighting Championship parted ways with Dulgarian. According to the promotion, its integrity partner IC360 is conducting a “thorough review” of the bout. Meanwhile, top sportsbooks such as Caesars Sportsbook, regarded by many as the best online bookmaker in the US, offered refunds to bettors who backed Dulgarian.

Federal Involvement – Stakes Got Higher

UFC President Dana White confirmed that the fight had been flagged by IC360 ahead of the event, and that the organisation had contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) immediately. White stated that he’d met with the FBI and warned fighters that match-fixing would lead to extreme consequences.

This incident echoes a 2022 scandal involving Darrick Minner and coach James Krause, which also featured sudden odds swings and led to industry disciplinary action. UFC’s current protocols with IC360 were in part established to address exactly this type of integrity risk.

What Happens Next?

• The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) is reportedly withholding Dulgarian’s fight purse pending investigation
• The UFC and IC360 will continue reviewing wagering data, fighter communications, and any potential signs of foul play.
• If wrongdoing is established, criminal and/or regulatory sanctions could follow — including bans, fines, or even prosecution.