UFC fighters prohibited from betting on their sport

The UFC has announced that its athletes are no longer allowed to bet on any UFC fight, regardless of if they are involved or not. 

Although a gambling ban is imposed across the sport, the change in the UFC Athlete Conduct Policy, however, does not mean that fighters are prohibited from being sponsored by gambling companies.

The governing body has also provided some additional guidance in assisting athletes to determine the potential scope of the state-imposed wagering restrictions on others.

Most states in the US already prohibit athletes from wagering on promotions of events of which they are involved in, with some even extending this to the training teams of such athletes.

“As you know, the UFC Athlete Conduct Policy requires UFC’s contracted athletes to act in a legal, ethical, and responsible manner and avoid conduct detrimental to the integrity of the UFC organisation,” the organisation said in a statement.

“In light of clear direction that we have received from regulators responsible for the regulated sports betting industry in the US, we are compelled at this time to recognise in the UFC Athlete Conduct Policy certain restrictions relating to wagering by our athletes, members of their teams and certain others.”

Athletes, such as James Krause and Derek Brunson, have previously posted their UFC gambling winnings online – but they will no longer be able to do so under the new legislation.

“We appreciate your dedication to our sport and your efforts to ensure its integrity,” the UFC explained.

UFC caught wind of my trash Parlays and said we must save you… ??? https://t.co/t6SbrseZk5

— Adrian Yañez (@yanezmma) October 18, 2022