Former UFC flyweight contender Jeff Molina has been handed a 36-month suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission. This penalty comes as a result of his participation in the betting controversy surrounding his coach, James Krause.
The decision was announced at a commission meeting on Tuesday, following an agreement between Molina and the state attorney general. In addition to the suspension, Molina is required to pay $235.56 to cover prosecution costs.
The case originated from a fight involving Molina’s teammate, Darrick Minner, who was defeated by Shayilan Nuerdanbieke at UFC Vegas 64 in November 2022. Suspicion arose due to unusual shifts in betting odds just before the event, with Minner becoming a significant underdog before his quick defeat in the first round.
Initially, Krause and Minner were suspended for failing to disclose a pre-existing injury. However, the broader investigation focused on a potential betting scandal, which ultimately led several sportsbooks to stop accepting bets on UFC matches.
Molina’s initial suspension began in December 2022 amid the investigation into betting irregularities linked to Krause. Deputy Attorney General Matthew Feeley stated that Molina`s suspension was due to his failure to report Minner`s injury and for subsequently placing bets on the fight`s outcome.
Feeley explained that Molina, knowing about Minner`s serious injury, violated regulations by not informing the commission and instead placed substantial bets on Minner’s fight.
The suspension is retroactive to the date of Minner`s fight, making Molina eligible to return to competition on or after November 5, 2025.
James Krause has faced a de facto ban from the UFC. The organization severed ties with him and warned fighters that continued association with Krause would result in their removal from UFC events.
UFC officials announced in December 2022 that fighters choosing to remain coached by Krause or train at his gym would be barred from UFC events pending government investigations.
Molina has maintained a low profile since his initial suspension and was removed from the UFC roster in January 2023.
Now, the 27-year-old fighter is facing the consequences and will be eligible to compete again in November 2025.
