MMA fighter Jeff Molina has issued a statement following his three-year suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission. The suspension stems from his involvement in a 2022 betting scandal related to a UFC event where he allegedly wagered on a fight involving his teammate, Darrick Minner.
The commission found that Molina was aware of an injury Minner was dealing with before his fight at UFC Vegas 64. Despite this knowledge, Molina reportedly placed bets on the bout, where betting lines significantly shifted in favor of Minner`s opponent, Shayilan Nuerdanbieke. Nuerdanbieke ultimately won the fight quickly via TKO.
According to the ruling, Molina should have disclosed Minner`s injury but instead proceeded to bet on the fight. His suspension is retroactive to November 2022, meaning he will be eligible to compete again in November 2025.
In response to criticism suggesting a lifetime ban was warranted, Molina clarified his actions on Twitter. He stated that his bets were placed on the entire fight card, a common practice for him to supplement his income as a fighter and fight enthusiast. He claims his largest single bet was under $500. Molina argues his primary offense was continuing to bet after the UFC advised fighters to stop.
Molina emphasized the relatively small total amount of his wagers, around $350 for the entire event. He admitted it was a mistake to bet with inside knowledge of Minner`s injury but argued that a three-year suspension is an excessive punishment. He also pointed out what he perceives as a double standard, referencing Conor McGregor`s public betting slips without similar repercussions.
Molina believes the three-year suspension is more than sufficient and refutes any accusations of being a “fight-fixing mastermind.” He acknowledged the issue was a fighter competing injured, a common occurrence in the sport, and that information about the injury leaked out.
Prior to the scandal, Molina was a rising flyweight contender in the UFC, holding a 3-0 record in the promotion. Darrick Minner also received a suspension, while the investigation into their coach, James Krause, is still ongoing.
Wesley Dunham