Dana White is letting UFC fighters know once and for all that gambling on fights is an absolute no-go.
As you probably know by now, UFC has been under the microscope this past week after an alarmingly suspicious betting line drastically moved before a fight between Isaac Dulgarian and Yadier del Valle last weekend at UFC Vegas 110. While Dulgarian — who has already been released — is the one being investigated for potential fight fixing it’s still not a good look for the promotion.
White, who is no stronger to playing the media, has tried his best to save face for UFC and assure its fans that illegal betting and fight fixing will never be tolerated. In fact, White revealed that he remains in communication with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and will cooperate in any way possible to help determine exactly what transpired at UFC Vegas 110 and how to prevent it from happening again.
On Thursday, White continued his media rounds to play defense while UFC’s integrity remains in the spotlight. White once again sent a clear message to all fighters on the roster that no gambling will ever be tolerated under the UFC’s watchful eye.
“You CAN’T gamble on fights,” said White during an interview with Jim Rome.
“My kids can’t even gamble on fights. If you’re anywhere near this organization or involved in any way shape or form, you shouldn’t be betting on fights.”
Unfortunately for UFC as a whole and fight fans, UFC Vegas 110 may not be an isolated incident. A handful of UFC fighters have already come forward saying they’ve been approached to throw a fight. If the promotion isn’t careful there could be a repeat of Dulgarian vs. del Valle somewhere down the road. That’s probably why White is staying out in front of the issue now and pulling no punches when it comes to any ideas of fight fixing.
