UFC 324 has lost two bouts, including Hernandez vs. Johnson due to irregular betting patterns, and Smotherman vs. Turcios after a weigh-in incident, but will proceed with 11 fights, headlined by Gaethje vs. Pimblett.
UFC 324 has hit another snag, the second in just two days.
The lightweight preliminary bout between Alexander Hernandez and Michael Johnson has been scrapped from Saturday’s lineup at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The promotion didn’t provide a reason for the cancellation.
Interestingly, sportsbooks like BetOnline noted “irregular betting patterns” for this matchup. They even lowered limits ahead of the bout.
Dave Mason from BetOnline tweeted, “Due to some irregular betting patterns, we will be keeping the limits lower than usual on tonight’s Michael Johnson vs Alex Hernandez bout.” No props, either. He emphasized this is a precaution, not a judgment on the fight’s integrity or potential injuries.
Remember Isaac Dulgarian? He was released after a first-round loss last November, which also saw unusual betting movements. Dana White mentioned the FBI got involved right after the fight at UFC Vegas 110.
Dulgarian is still under suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission as the investigation continues.
Despite these hiccups, UFC 324 continues with 11 bouts. It also lost the Smotherman vs. Turcios fight after Smotherman collapsed post-weigh-in.
This event marks the UFC’s first under the Paramount era, headlined by an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett. Exciting times!