Recently, the UFC introduced a revised code of conduct that now prohibits athletes from placing bets on fights, even if they are not the participants in the bout.
This change in policy was announced on Monday and caught many by surprise.
The updated amendment titled “Wagering” explicitly states that athletes are not allowed to place any wagers, whether directly or through a third party, on any UFC match, including bets on themselves. The policy highlights that in states where sports betting is legal, such actions could lead to criminal penalties. It also extends the prohibition to family members, coaches, and others having access to inside information about MMA matches.
However, the new rule does not prevent fighters from entering into sponsorship agreements with sportsbooks.
Reacting to this news, Jeff Molina, known for sharing his betting activities, expressed some disappointment via a tweet.
Similar strict regulations exist in other sports leagues; for example, Major League Baseball imposed a lifetime ban on Pete Rose for betting, and the NFL recently suspended Calvin Ridley of the Atlanta Falcons over allegations of betting $1,500 on his team’s games.
