The MMA world is reeling after UFC Vegas 110 became ground zero for a potential fight-fixing scandal that has now drawn the attention of federal investigators. The bout in question? A featherweight clash between Isaac Dulgarian and Yadier del Valle, which ended in a shocking first-round submission loss for Dulgarian—his first career stoppage. But it wasn’t just the result that raised eyebrows. Hours before the fight, betting lines shifted dramatically, triggering alarms across sportsbooks and prompting UFC’s integrity partner, IC360, to flag the matchup.
👮 FBI Steps In
UFC President Dana White confirmed that the FBI is actively investigating the incident. “It doesn’t look good,” White admitted, acknowledging that the organization had received warnings about suspicious betting activity before the fight even began. The UFC has since severed ties with Dulgarian, who was released from the promotion amid the controversyGiveMeSport.
White’s response has been swift and public. “If you’re dumb enough to try and fix a fight in the UFC, you’re going to get caught,” he warned. The promotion is cooperating fully with federal authorities, and White has made it clear that any fighter or official found guilty will be permanently banned.
🧨 Jason Herzog Under Fire
Referee Jason Herzog, who officiated the controversial bout, has also come under scrutiny. Critics have called for an investigation into his role, citing questionable stoppage timing and decision-making. Herzog fired back, defending his integrity and professionalism, but the pressure is mounting. MMA journalist Harry Mac revealed that over 100 fights are now being flagged by the FBI for potential irregularities.
🎙️ Ariel Helwani Drops a Bombshell
Veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani added fuel to the fire, reporting that multiple fighters have been approached to throw fights for money. “This is not an isolated incident,” Helwani stated, suggesting that the Dulgarian-Del Valle bout may be just the tip of the iceberg.
💥 The Krause Effect
This scandal echoes the 2022 James Krause betting controversy, which led to sweeping changes in UFC’s gambling policies. But unlike Krause’s case, this time the FBI is involved from the outset, and the implications could be far more severe.
What’s Next for the UFC?
The UFC’s credibility is on the line. With the FBI digging deeper and Dana White taking a hardline stance, the promotion faces a pivotal moment. Will this be a wake-up call that cleans up the sport—or the beginning of a darker chapter?
