Published on: February 1, 2026, 01:38h.
Latest update on: February 1, 2026, 01:40h.
- UFC lightweight denies involvement in fight cancellation
- Unusual betting patterns raised concerns regarding the fight
- Ongoing investigations by UFC and FBI
UFC lightweight athlete Alexander Hernandez has spoken out for the first time following the cancellation of his fight against Michael Johnson at UFC 324 in Las Vegas last week due to questionable betting activities.
“I would never compromise my integrity or this sport by not giving my all in the ring,” Hernandez expressed on Instagram. “I’ve endured a lot throughout my career to reach this prominent position. I value this deeply and recognize the efforts of others in this sport. It’s incredibly disheartening to have a fight cancelled after a complete training camp and weight cut due to factors beyond my control.”
Gambling Climate in Las Vegas: Odds Shift Before Fight
The UFC has encountered similar circumstances in the past, as they maintain close relationships with licensed sportsbooks and the Integrity Compliance 360 monitoring team. In November, fighter Isaac Dulgarian was released following flagged suspicious betting activity on his bout with Yadier del Valle.
Hernandez’s matchup with Johnson was scrapped just prior to the commencement of UFC 324. Standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 155 pounds, Hernandez boasts a record of 18-8 and was riding a four-fight win streak, including a second-round TKO victory over Diego Ferreira last September.
In a pre-fight feature on the UFC website, Hernandez mentioned: “It’s about assembling all the elements together. Overcoming various mental and physical challenges while believing in the process. It feels great to be in this position, but I also recognize it could all vanish if I face setbacks in the future.”
Investigations by UFC and FBI
At BetMGM, Hernandez, 33, was initially a -210 favorite (Johnson at +165), but the odds shifted the day before the fight to Hernandez -140 and Johnson +110, following the placement of 69% of bets and 66% of the total handle on Johnson.
During the post-UFC 324 news conference, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that the cancellation stemmed from suspicious gambling activity.
“Yes, this has happened again,” White informed reporters. “We received a call from the gaming integrity service, and I decided we couldn’t proceed. The FBI is already deeply involved in these matters, so I’m certain this will be under their scrutiny as well.”
Hernandez’s Denial of Any Misconduct
No further comments from the UFC have emerged regarding potential suspensions for Hernandez or Johnson as of now.
“I respect that the FBI is performing their duties,” Hernandez stated on Instagram. “I also acknowledge the UFC is doing their part. My priority is getting back to my work as soon as possible. I hope this situation is resolved swiftly. I am in the prime of my career, and I do not want my opportunities taken from me.”