Daniel Cormier recounts calling alleged fixed UFC fight: ‘How in the world is this kid so bad’

UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has recounted a striking encounter during his commentary duties when he unknowingly witnessed what would later be revealed as a fixed fight. Speaking on the In the Bayou podcast, Cormier described calling out a fighter for displaying shockingly poor grappling technique at the UFC APEX, expressing bewilderment at the basic defensive failures on display. "I'm on the commentary, and I'm just going how in the world is this kid so bad," Cormier recalled, noting that the fighter's inability to execute fundamental ground-fighting concepts seemed inexplicable for a professional competing in the sport's largest organization.

Shortly after the bout concluded, the UFC informed Cormier of what had actually transpired: the fighter in question was under FBI investigation for potential match-fixing. While Cormier did not identify the specific fighter by name, the description aligns with Isaac Dulgarian, who was released from the UFC roster following a suspicious first-round submission loss after the betting odds shifted dramatically in his disfavor. Dulgarian was subsequently suspended by the Nevada Athletic Commission for conduct deemed to "discredit to unarmed combat," though he has denied any wrongdoing.

Cormier's anecdote underscores the UFC's heightened vigilance against betting irregularities and fight-fixing schemes. The promotion has dramatically escalated its compliance efforts in recent years, enlisting FBI oversight to monitor betting patterns for anomalies that might signal foul play. When suspicious line movement occurs—whether at weigh-ins or before a fight—the UFC now has protocols to pull bouts if warranted. Past incidents involving fighters like Darrick Minner and his coach James Krause, who was effectively banned from the sport, illustrate the promotion's commitment to strict enforcement.

"You have to keep it authentic," Cormier emphasized. "It has to be real." His remarks reflect growing industry awareness that preserving the sport's integrity requires constant vigilance and decisive action against those who threaten it.