The cancellation of Alexander Hernandez’s highly anticipated bout against Michael Johnson at UFC 324 ignited a firestorm of controversy, prompting a forceful response from the fighter himself.
Hernandez vehemently denied any involvement in suspicious betting activity, taking to social media to defend his integrity and passion for the sport. He insisted he would never compromise his principles or the spirit of competition.
“I would never dishonor myself or this sport by not giving my absolute all,” Hernandez wrote, expressing the weight of his journey and the respect he holds for his profession. He emphasized his dedication, stating he doesn’t take his work, or the work of others, lightly.
The abrupt removal of the fight stemmed from a direct alert from a gaming integrity service, as revealed by UFC president Dana White. White’s reaction was decisive: “I’m not doing this s* again,” he stated, recalling a previous incident that shook the organization.
White’s strong stance echoes a 2025 betting scandal that drew unwanted scrutiny from the FBI and mainstream media, forcing the UFC to confront the potential for corruption within its ranks. The incident left White visibly frustrated and determined to protect the sport’s reputation.
Initially dismissing claims of widespread match-fixing as “total bullshit” and “clickbait,” White later adopted a zero-tolerance policy, vowing severe consequences for any fighter implicated in manipulating fight outcomes.
White made it clear that any attempt to compromise the integrity of UFC events would be met with unrelenting force, promising to collaborate fully with law enforcement to ensure perpetrators face prosecution. “We will be your worst enemy,” he warned.
Hernandez acknowledged the ongoing investigations, expressing his understanding of the necessary due process while simultaneously pleading for a swift resolution. He is eager to return to competition, feeling his prime years are being jeopardized.
“I understand the FBI is doing their job. I understand the UFC is doing their job,” Hernandez stated. “I am trying to get back to doing my job as quickly as possible. I do not want my time stolen.”
The situation underscores the UFC’s heightened vigilance regarding betting irregularities and its commitment to safeguarding the fairness and credibility of the sport, even as Hernandez fights to clear his name and reclaim his place in the octagon.
