The Ultimate Fighting Championship has terminated fighter Isaac Dulgarian following allegations of irregular betting patterns linked to his recent fight. Dulgarian was cut days after losing by first-round submission to Yadier del Valle during a November 1 event, prompting an investigation into suspicious wagering activity.
Sports betting platforms flagged rapid fluctuations in odds for Dulgarian, the favored competitor, hours before the bout, leading some sites to halt wagers. The UFC confirmed it collaborates with IC360, an independent integrity service, to monitor betting trends. A statement emphasized the organization’s commitment to upholding “the integrity of our sport,” though no specific findings were disclosed.
The incident adds to broader concerns about gambling corruption in sports. Recent FBI actions against NBA players and coaches over insider betting schemes highlight similar issues across leagues. Meanwhile, commentators critiqued Dulgarian’s loss as a result of unprofessional performance, labeling the submission “white belt stuff.”
This is not the first time UFC events have faced scrutiny. Former figure James Krause previously drew attention for undisclosed injuries and alleged ties to offshore betting networks, though no criminal charges were filed. The UFC has yet to comment on whether Dulgarian’s case involves similar violations.