Morales Shares the Experience
Vince Morales, an 11-fight UFC veteran, disclosed that he was approached with a $70,000 offer to deliberately lose a match. In a social media post, now deleted, Morales stated that he could not accept the proposal, explaining, “I’ve been approached about doing it … it’s not something I could live with … 70k.” He indicated that the incident occurred during the early COVID period, specifically during a fight week at the UFC Apex.
Concerns Over Fight Integrity
Morales’s revelation adds to growing concerns about potential fight-fixing within MMA. Other fighters have reported similar solicitations, raising alarms about the integrity of matches and the influence of betting interests. Journalist Ariel Helwani noted that multiple individuals have either faced such offers themselves or are aware of others who have been approached to manipulate fight outcomes.
Impact on UFC and Future Oversight
The disclosure underscores the need for the UFC and regulatory bodies to monitor fighters’ financial vulnerabilities and prevent illicit betting influence. Morales’s choice to reject the offer and speak publicly may prompt further internal reviews and discussions around athlete protections, compliance measures, and potential investigations, though no formal probes have been announced at this time.
