In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, several prominent bookmakers have taken the extraordinary step of offering full refunds on bets placed for a controversial UFC bout. The decision comes amid growing concerns over unusual betting patterns surrounding the recent fight between Christian Leroy Duncan and Carlos Ulberg.
The Fight That Raised Eyebrows
The middleweight contest, which took place during UFC's highly anticipated Fight Night event, ended in a manner that immediately triggered alarm bells among betting integrity experts. Carlos Ulberg secured a first-round victory over British fighter Christian 'CLD' Duncan, but it was the circumstances surrounding the bout that drew immediate scrutiny.
Suspicious Market Movements
According to industry insiders, bookmakers detected highly unusual betting activity in the hours leading up to the fight. Several major gambling platforms reported significant amounts being wagered on Ulberg to win by first-round knockout, with some bets placed at odds that retrospectively appear remarkably prescient.
One betting industry source revealed: "The pattern was unlike anything we normally see for UFC events. There was a concentrated flood of money on a very specific outcome that raised immediate red flags among our trading teams."
Bookmakers Take Unprecedented Action
In response to these concerns, multiple bookmakers have made the rare decision to refund all bets placed on the controversial bout. William Hill, Betfred, and several other major players in the gambling industry have confirmed they will return stakes to customers who wagered on either fighter.
A spokesperson for one leading bookmaker stated: "As a gesture of goodwill and in light of the unusual circumstances surrounding this event, we have made the decision to refund all bets on this particular fight. The integrity of sports betting is paramount to our operations."
UFC's Response and Investigation
The UFC has acknowledged the situation and confirmed they are reviewing the matter internally. In an official statement, the organisation said: "The UFC is aware of the concerns raised regarding the bout between Christian Leroy Duncan and Carlos Ulberg. We take all matters of integrity seriously and are conducting a thorough review of the available information."
Both fighters have yet to make public statements addressing the allegations directly. Christian Leroy Duncan, who suffered his second professional defeat in the contest, has maintained his social media silence since the event.
Broader Implications for Sports Integrity
This incident marks the latest in a series of betting controversies to hit combat sports globally. Industry regulators have increasingly focused on monitoring unusual betting patterns in real-time, with sophisticated algorithms now flagging suspicious activity almost instantly.
Sports integrity expert Professor Declan Hill commented: "When bookmakers take the extraordinary step of refunding bets, it indicates they have serious concerns about the legitimacy of the contest. This kind of action is reserved for the most clear-cut cases of suspicious activity."
The Gambling Commission has confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely, though no formal investigation has been announced at this stage.
