Unusual betting movement has cast a spotlight on one of the fights scheduled for UFC Perth, with sportsbooks flagging activity around the flyweight bout between Steve Erceg and Tim Elliott.
According to BetOnline, the matchup has drawn what it described as “irregular action,” with the liability on the fight reportedly three times higher than any other bout on the card. The shift in odds has been just as notable.
Erceg initially opened as a -285 favorite, with Elliott listed at +245. At one stage, Erceg’s line widened to -600, but heavy betting on Elliott has since flipped the momentum. The current line now sits much closer, with Erceg around -175 and Elliott at +145.
The volume behind Elliott has been particularly striking. BetOnline indicated that more than 91 percent of sharp or professional wagers have backed the underdog, a trend that has forced a significant market correction in a short span of time.
While there is no evidence of wrongdoing from either fighter, the situation has drawn attention due to similar cases in recent months. Earlier this year at UFC 324, a scheduled bout between Alexander Hernandez and Michael Johnson was pulled after sportsbooks detected suspicious betting patterns. The UFC ultimately opted not to rebook that matchup.
Another case involving Isaac Dulgarian last year also raised eyebrows. Despite alerts from betting operators, his fight went ahead, only for the heavy favorite to lose quickly under questionable circumstances. UFC CEO Dana White later confirmed that the FBI was looking into the matter.
For now, the Erceg vs. Elliott bout remains part of the UFC Perth lineup, which is set to go ahead as planned. However, given the promotion’s recent approach to betting irregularities, the situation will likely continue to be monitored closely leading into fight night.