Jeff Molina, a former fighter in the UFC`s flyweight division, is preparing to relaunch his combat sports career, but this time in the bare-knuckle format.
Molina has officially signed a contract to compete with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). This move comes after his release from the UFC, which followed a betting scandal involving his former coach, James Krause.
BKFC officials confirmed the signing earlier this week.
However, Molina is not immediately cleared for competition. He is currently serving a three-year suspension imposed by the Nevada Athletic Commission and will become eligible to fight again after November 5th.
The circumstances leading to his suspension originated from an incident in November 2022. It involved his teammate, Darrick Minner, and a fight against Shayilan Nuerdanbieke. Suspicion arose when betting lines for the bout shifted significantly just before the event, culminating in Minner losing quickly in the first round.
Initially, Krause and Minner faced suspensions for failing to report an injury. The subsequent investigation expanded into a potential betting scandal, which even led several sportsbooks to temporarily halt accepting bets on UFC fights.
Molina`s suspension stemmed from his involvement in wagering on the fight involving his teammate.
According to Matthew Feeley, deputy attorney general for the state of Nevada, Molina had “direct knowledge of a serious injury sustained by a fellow fighter Darrick Minner” but failed to inform the commission. Instead of reporting the injury, Molina “additionally placed significant bets with a gaming entity on the outcome of Minner’s fight.”
Ultimately, Molina received a three-year suspension along with a fine. His eligibility to compete will be reinstated in November.
During his tenure with the UFC prior to the suspension, Molina maintained a perfect 3-0 record in the flyweight division.
Molina joins a BKFC roster that continues to expand its global footprint. The organization recently held its inaugural event in Italy and has announced plans for a debut card in Texas scheduled for June.
