Jeff
Molina is the latest member of Glory MMA & Fitness to
experience the fallout from the
ongoing UFC betting probe.
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According to
ESPN, the UFC flyweight has been handed what has been currently
labeled as an “uncategorized” suspension by the Nevada State
Athletic Commission pending its next meeting in January. Molina’s
suspension was initially listed on his profile page at
mixedmartialarts.com.
While NSAC officials couldn’t comment on the nature of the
suspension, ESPN confirmed that Molina is linked to the
investigation that began as a result of suspicious betting activity
ahead of the Nov. 5 UFC fight between Darrick
Minner and Neurdanbieke Shayilan. Odds shifted significantly in
Shayilan’s favor a few hours before the bout — including
significant wagering on the Chinese fighter to win inside the
distance. Shayilan defeated a hobbled Minner by technical knockout
in 67 seconds, and speculation ensued that Minner was injured
heading into the bout. Minner has since been released by the Las
Vegas-based promotion.
Meanwhile, Glory MMA & Fitness leader James
Krause was suspended by the NSAC for potentially failing to
disclose Minner’s injury, and the UFC has barred fighters on the
roster from any association with Krause’s gym until the
investigation concludes. Those who continue to train under Krause
will be banned from competing at UFC events, according to the
promotion.
Molina, who trains at Glory MMA & Fitness, was scheduled to face
Jimmy
Flick at UFC Fight Night 217 on Jan. 14 before withdrawing from
the bout. He was replaced by Charles
Johnson. The 25-year-old Molina is 3-0 in UFC competition since
appearing on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2020. The Olathe,
Kan., native last appeared at UFC Fight Night 207, where he earned
a split-decision triumph against Zhalgas
Zhumagulov.