Darrick Minner, formerly a UFC fighter, has been suspended for 29 months by the Nevada Athletic Commission. This decision, announced on Tuesday, comes after Minner failed to disclose an injury before his 2022 fight. This lack of disclosure triggered an investigation into betting irregularities linked to his coach, James Krause.
Minner was initially suspended in December 2022 alongside Krause. However, he reached an agreement with the Nevada State Attorney General. This agreement was then approved by the commission during their monthly meeting.
In addition to the suspension, the 34-year-old Minner is required to pay $235.56 to cover prosecution costs. His suspension is retroactive, meaning he was eligible to return to fighting as of March 26.
The investigation into suspicious betting patterns began after Minner`s fight against Shayilan Nuerdanbieke at UFC Vegas 64 in November 2022. Minner lost this fight in the first round via TKO. Concerns were raised when betting odds for the fight shifted dramatically just before it began, with Minner becoming a significant underdog before his swift defeat in just 67 seconds.
As the investigation started, both Minner and Krause were suspended. The situation led several major sportsbooks to stop accepting bets on UFC events.
The UFC reacted quickly by cutting ties with both Minner and Krause and cooperated with the investigation into the potential betting scandal.
Minner was released from his UFC contract, and Krause received a de facto ban from any involvement with the UFC. The UFC also warned that any fighter continuing to train with Krause would be removed from the organization.
UFC officials stated in December 2022 that fighters who chose to remain coached by Krause or train at his gym would not be allowed to participate in UFC events while government investigations were ongoing.
While Minner and his teammate Jeff Molina faced penalties from the Nevada Athletic Commission, the broader issue of betting irregularities was considered a criminal matter. UFC CEO Dana White commented in December 2022 on the serious potential consequences.
White emphasized the severe legal ramifications, stating that those involved could face federal prison. He stressed that the potential gains were not worth risking one`s life and freedom through federal imprisonment.
Currently, it is unclear if the criminal investigation will yield any outcomes. However, Minner is now eligible to resume his fighting career as of March 26, based on the Nevada Athletic Commission`s suspension.
