Former UFC fighter Darrick Minner has been suspended for 29 months by the Nevada Athletic Commission. This decision comes after Minner failed to report an injury before his 2022 fight, which triggered an investigation into betting irregularities connected to his coach, James Krause.
Minner was initially suspended in December 2022 along with Krause. However, he reached an agreement with the Nevada State Attorney General, which was approved by the commission during a recent meeting.
In addition to the suspension, the 34-year-old veteran is required to pay $235.56 in prosecution fees. His suspension is retroactive, meaning he was eligible to return to fighting as of March 26.
The investigation into unusual betting patterns began after Minner`s fight against Shayilan Nuerdanbieke at UFC Vegas 64 in November 2022. Significant shifts in betting odds just before the event raised suspicions, with Minner becoming a heavy underdog before losing the fight quickly in the first round.
As the investigation commenced, both Minner and Krause were suspended. Several major sportsbooks even stopped accepting bets on UFC events as a result.
The UFC swiftly distanced itself from Minner and Krause and cooperated with the investigation into the potential betting scandal.
Minner was released from his UFC contract, and Krause was effectively banned from any involvement with the UFC. The UFC also warned that any fighter continuing to work with Krause would also be removed from the organization.
UFC officials stated in December 2022 that fighters coached by Krause or training at his gym would not be allowed to participate in UFC events pending the government investigations.
While Minner and teammate Jeff Molina faced penalties from the Nevada Athletic Commission, the broader issue of betting irregularities is considered a criminal investigation. UFC CEO Dana White commented in December 2022 on the serious potential consequences, including federal prison time for those involved in betting fraud.
It is currently unclear what the outcome of the criminal investigation will be. However, Darrick Minner is now able to resume his fighting career as of March 26, following the Nevada Athletic Commission`s suspension.
