How To Bet on UFC Fights

By:

Scott Jack

in

Last Updated on

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) launched in 1993, and since then it has gained a massive following. With an explosive mix of adrenaline-pumping action, raw athleticism, and unpredictable outcomes, the UFC has captivated audiences worldwide. Beyond being a spectator sport, the UFC offers an enticing opportunity for bettors and UFC enthusiasts seeking to add an extra layer of excitement.

However, betting on UFC fights can be daunting even for seasoned bettors, with its unique and diverse range of wagers. 

This beginner’s guide aims to demystify the world of UFC betting and equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to successfully make your first UFC bet. And if you are a seasoned bettor, look out for the practical tips we include on how to enhance your UFC betting experience.

A Closer Look at The UFC and Its Rules

Every sport has rules, and if you look closely enough you will understand that a lot about sports betting and its outcomes are tied to these rules. So, before we take a closer look at how to bet on the UFC. let us delve a bit deeper into the game and what the rules mean.

The UFC traces its roots back to 1993 when it was founded by Rorion Gracie, Art Davie, Bob Meyrowitz, and Campbell McLaren. The inaugural event, UFC 1, took place in Denver, Colorado, and marked the beginning of a new era in combat sports.

Originally conceived as a no-holds-barred spectacle featuring fighters from various disciplines, including boxing, karate, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the early UFC events were characterized by their raw and unregulated nature.

The sport would get a lot of backlash from critics and regulatory bodies for this very reason. In response, the UFC implemented a series of rule changes and safety regulations, leading to the introduction of weight classes, time limits, and standardized rulesets.

Over the years, UFC has changed ownership and leadership and has evolved into a global phenomenon, hosting events in sold-out arenas across the world and attracting millions of viewers through pay-per-view and digital streaming platforms. It has also created another avenue for lovers of the betting slip to do what they love.

How To Bet on UFC Fights

Some UFC Rules Every Bettor Should Know

  • UFC fights usually take place in a fenced-off cage called the Octagon.
  • Each fight is meant to run for three rounds. However, big fights and main UFC events can last for 5 rounds of 5 minutes each.
  • Fighters are allowed a minute’s rest between each fight.
  • Three judges view the match from outside the octagon from specified and unique angles. Here, they look for techniques used by the fighters including aggressiveness, grappling, defense, striking, and control of the cage. At the end, the players are scored using a 10-point system.
  • There is always a referee in the ring during the fight.
  • Fighters can make several fouls while fighting. Offenses like head butting, hair pulling, eye gouging, biting, spitting, and throat strikes are punishable. Fighters could lose points or risk being disqualified. Only a referee can access and call a foul.
  • Disregarding the referee’s instruction is also grounds for a foul.

These are just a few of the rules that fighters have to follow. The implication, therefore, is that fighting in the UFC has become more than just a physical activity that utilizes brute force. Fighters have to show mental agility. Fighters have to be alert. Fighters must find a way to skirt these rules to create their own unique fighting styles.

But these rules are not meant for fighters alone. People who want to bet on the UFC also need a firm grasp of these rules, so they can understand a fighter’s technique, and how it might affect their scores in the match. This makes it easier to predict the outcomes of matches and make better bets.

How Does UFC Betting Work?

Betting on an anticipated UFC match or your favorite UFC fighter is just as straightforward as betting on your favorite NFL team. Everything is done online, so you would need a PC or an internet-enabled mobile device to bet. You would also need an online sports betting platform to bet on.

Sportsbooks place odds on fighters and matches and you might have to do a bit of digging to find a sportsbook that meets your needs. Once you have found a sportsbook that offers the best odds for the game you want to wager on, the next step would be to select the betting line you want to wager on.

Wager a certain amount and then wait for the match to end to see if you won the bet. However, to get the most out of your wager and ensure you are getting the best odds, you need to understand how UFC odds work and the bet lines available to you.

UFC Betting Odds

Like most sports, UFC betting revolves around betting odds, which indicate the likelihood of a particular outcome and determine the potential payout. These UFC/MMA betting odds serve as the foundation of the entire betting process and understanding how they work is crucial for making informed decisions and maximizing your chances of success.

Most times, these values are placed close to the fighter’s name. These values are similar across sportsbooks, but they can vary. Also, there are several ways for sportsbooks to display odds including decimal, American, and fractional.

American Odds

This is the default for displaying odds in most sportsbooks, and it consists of positive and negative numbers. Negative numbers indicate the favorite, representing the amount you need to bet to win $100. For example, if a fighter has odds of -200, you would need to bet $200 to win $100.

Positive numbers denote the underdog, indicating the potential profit on a $100 bet. For instance, if a fighter has odds of +150, a $100 bet would yield a profit of $150.

The concept of favorite and underdog is not unique to UFC betting. It is common in most sports but means something slightly different for each sport. In UFC betting, the favorite is the fighter perceived to have a higher probability of winning the match.

Conversely, the underdog is the fighter expected to lose. Betting on the favorite yields a smaller return but is considered less risky, while betting on the underdog offers higher potential payouts with greater risk.

Decimal Odds

Decimal odds aren’t as common, although some sportsbooks also offer odds in this format. Decimal odds typically represent the total payout, including the initial stake. For example, decimal odds of 1.50 would mean that for every $1 wagered, you would receive $1.50 in return if your bet is successful.

Fractional Odds

Fractional odds are the least common odds in UFC betting, but they are still offered by some sportsbooks. These odds are presented as fractions, with the numerator indicating the potential profit and the denominator representing the amount wagered. For instance, fractional odds of 3/1 mean that for every $1 bet, you would win $3 in profit if your bet is successful.

Implied Probability

UFC betting odds also provide insight into the implied probability of each outcome, This refers to the likelihood of a particular result occurring based on the odds.

To calculate the implied probability from American odds, you can use the following formulas:

  • For negative odds: Implied Probability = 100 / (Negative Odds + 100)
  • For positive odds: Implied Probability = Positive Odds / (Positive Odds + 100)

Line Movement

Changes can occur in the betting odds for a particular UFC fight as the event comes close. This fluctuation is known as line movement and can occur as a result of various factors such as betting activity, injury news, changes in fighter performance, and other relevant information.

Line movement can involve shifts in both the odds themselves and the amount of money wagered on each side of the bet. Monitoring line movement can provide insights into how betting trends are evolving and may influence betting decisions.

Understanding UFC betting odds helps you interpret the likelihood of different outcomes and assess the potential risks and rewards associated with each wager. By utilizing this knowledge effectively, you can make informed betting choices and enhance your overall UFC betting experience.

UFC Betting Lines

A visit to your favorite sportsbook will show that there are several ways you can bet on your favorite UFC matches. These are called betting lines and are meant to provide bettors with diverse options while adding a layer of fun and excitement.

But these bets work differently, and to utilize them for maximum profit, you have to understand how they operate.

Here are the most popular UFC betting lines, and what they mean for your wager:

Moneyline

The most straightforward type of betting line, the moneyline, presents odds for each fighter to win the match outright. Negative (-) odds denote the favorite, while positive (+) odds represent the underdog.

The bettor then decides on which fighter they think will win the fight at the end of the event. Bettors can wager on the favorite or the underdog. However, if the odds are too narrow, some people wager on both fighters, a process known as hedging your bet.

A typical UFC moneyline bet would look something like this:

FighterOdds
Natan Levy+200
Mike David-250

In the bet above Natan Levy is the clear underdog. A bet on him would mean you would need to wager $100 to win $200. On the other hand, Mike David is the favorite to win the match and a bet on him means you need to wager $250 to get a $100 profit.

Over/Under Bets (Totals)

Totals are another way for bettors to wager on a UFC event. However, it is not based on who wins or who loses, but on the number of rounds the fight will last.

Sportsbooks set a benchmark for the total number of rounds expected in the fight. Bettors can wager on whether the actual number of rounds will be over or under the line set by the sportsbook. Similar to the moneyline, the odds on this betting line are shown as American odds, but with an O and a U next to them.

Another feature of Totals that sets it apart from Moneylines is that the odds come with an extra .5. So if a bettor makes a bet on the over 2.5 option, it means the fight has to last for three full rounds or at least make it past halfway on the third round.

This is what a typical Over/Under bet would look like:

FighterO/U Odds
Jack Della MaddalenaO 1.5 -200
Gilbert BurnsU 1.5 +165

In the bet above, Jack Della only has to last up to the second round for bettors who bet on him to win. On the other hand, Gilbert Burns could lose the match or win anytime until the second round, and bettors would still win their wager.

UFC Prop Bets

UFC prop bets are a fan favorite because they allow bettors to wager on aspects of the event except for the match outcome. 

These lines offer a wide range of specific outcomes within a fight, such as whether a particular fighter will win by a certain method, whether the fight will go to a decision, or if a specific event will occur during the match.

A favorite option among bettors is if a particular fighter will Go the Distance. In this option, bettors will wager a certain amount on whether the chosen fighter will be standing throughout the five rounds. Of course, it does not matter if they win or lose.

Another popular option is Inside the Distance, which allows bettors to place money on whether their fighter will win the match within a given number of rounds.

Prop bets are great because they allow people who are not seasoned bettors to join in the fun and excitement of betting. However, prop odds can be quite tricky and risky too, so it’s important for bettors to search for and find sportsbooks with the best odds.

UFC Method of Victory

At its core, this type of bet is a prop bet. However, because of how popular it is, sportsbooks usually list them separately.

Method of victory includes options for predicting how a fight will end, such as by knockout (KO), submission (SUB), or decision (DEC). Bettors who wager on this option have to know the fighter they are wagering on well. Some fighters have unique fighting styles and might have a preferred method of ending the fight.

Method of victory might be one of the easiest options to predict correctly. All you need is an indepth knowledge of the fighters.

Here is what a UFC method of victory would look like in a sportsbook:

FighterOdds
Natan Levy by TKO+500
Natan Levy by Points+450
Mike Burns by TKO-300
Mike Burns by Points-370

There are four ways for a UFC fight to end:

A Knockout (KO)

A knockout in a UFC event is a definitive end to a fight, resulting from a fighter receiving a powerful blow that renders them unconscious or unable to continue. The referee halts the bout and declares the opponent the winner by knockout.

Technical Knockout (TKO)

A technical knockout occurs when a fighter is unable to defend themselves effectively, prompting the referee to stop the fight for safety reasons. This can happen due to sustained strikes, resulting in the opponent being declared the winner by TKO.

Submission

Submission in the UFC occurs when a fighter concedes defeat by tapping out, signaling their ability to escape a chokehold or a joint lock. This acknowledgment of defeat ends the fight, with the opponent declared the winner by submission. However, it is rare for fights to end in submission as it is every fighter’s worst nightmare.

Decision

In UFC, a decision is the outcome determined by judges when a fight reaches its time limit without a knockout, submission, or disqualification. Judges score the fight based on criteria such as effective striking, grappling, and octagon control, declaring the winner by unanimous, split, or majority decision.

Bettors who decide to bet on a method of victory have to choose a fighter they favor and pick a method out of these four that they think the fighter will win by.

UFC Rounds Betting

Rounds betting is another betting option that is essentially a prop bet because it allows bettors to wager on which round they think the fight will end. However, because it is one of the most popular types of prop bets, most sportsbooks list this option separately.

Rounds Betting is different from Over/Under betting because all you just have to do is select when the fight will end.

You also have the option of choosing if the Fight Goes to Decision. Like all the other betting options on this list, rounds betting offers diverse betting opportunities based on the expected duration of the bout.

UFC Live Betting

Some sportsbooks offer live betting options, allowing you to place bets during the course of a fight based on real-time developments. Live betting offers a thrill to the UFC betting scene. However, if you are new to UFC betting you might not be used to this unpredictable, violent, and, fast-paced. And if you are not used to it, you might end up draining your bank.

But if you get familiar with the concept, and you have your picks for the events you want to wager on, UFC live betting can be very lucrative. Of course, you still need to go in armed with all the knowledge you can muster.

Aside from this, the UFC live betting market is similar to the typical type of bets we have listed earlier in this article.

UFC Future Champion Special

The UFC Future Champion Special is a unique betting market offered by select sportsbooks, allowing bettors to wager on which fighter will become a champion in their respective weight class in the future. Unlike traditional fight betting, this special bet focuses on long-term outcomes and allows bettors to wager on the athlete they think has the most promise.

To bet on this option, you have to be able to analyze each fighter’s skillset, past performances, age, and potential matchups to assess their likelihood of securing a championship title in the future. This type of bet appeals to fans who enjoy following fighters’ careers and speculating on their trajectory within the UFC.

The UFC Future Champion special provides an exciting avenue for bettors to engage with the sport beyond individual fights. It fosters anticipation and adds another layer of excitement as you follow the progression of each fighter.

How To Bet On UFC Matches Online

We have taken a look at the type of bets you can make on UFC matches. Let’s take a look at how you can place your wager on an online sportsbook.

Launch the Website and Register

Before you can bet on a UFC match, you need to sign up to a sportsbook. So research and select a reputable online sportsbook that offers UFC betting. Consider factors such as user reviews, betting options, odds, bonuses, and security measures. This can become overwhelming, so you can check out our guide on where to bet on UFC fights to find a sportsbook to bet with.

Once you have opened the sportsbook, sign up for an account on the website or mobile app. You will be asked to provide the necessary information such as name, email username, and password.

After signing up, log in to your account and deposit funds into your betting account using your preferred payment method.

Navigate to the UFC Betting Section

Access the sportsbook’s website or app and navigate to the UFC betting section. This may be listed under “MMA,” “Combat Sports,” or “UFC.” Although these do not mean the same thing, you can get the same events from all of them. 

Pick The Betting Line and Match

Research the betting lines we have on this list and decide on the one you want to bet on. Each of these betting lines requires knowledge of the UFC and the fighters, although some are easier to win than others.

Once you have decided on the betting line, look for the match and the fighter you want to wager on. Click on the team, and then choose the betting line. The sportsbook will automatically populate your betting sleep.

Decide on the Amount You Want to Wager

Do not wager an amount you cannot afford to lose. Choose an amount within your means, then review your selections and confirm your bets before finalizing them. Double-check the chosen fighters, bet types, and stake amounts to ensure accuracy.

Monitor The Matches

This might not be necessary but it’s always a good idea to monitor the matches you have ber on as they unfold. Follow the action in real time through live streams, updates, or televised broadcasts. And if things are going as you predicted, you might take the chance and hedge your bet.

Collect Winnings

If your bets are successful, the winnings will be credited to your betting account. You can withdraw them or use them to place additional bets on future UFC matches.

Remember to gamble responsibly and within your means. Set a budget for your UFC betting activities and avoid chasing losses. Betting on UFC matches should be enjoyable and entertaining, so wager responsibly to enhance your overall experience.

UFC Betting Strategies and Tips

Here are a few UFC betting tips to consider while making your wagers:

See How Fighters’ Styles Match Up Against Each Other

UFC is a mixed martial arts competition, which means the fighters struggling for the championships all have different styles. Some prefer a direct delivery of blows, while others want to wrestle their opponent to the ground.

Study these styles and see how one style might give a fighter an advantage over his opponent. Don’t forget to consider the stance of the fighter. Are they Southpaw or Orthodox? In certain situations, players might not be able to defend themselves against southpaw players.

Have a Grasp of the UFC Rules

This is just as important as knowing the fighting styles of the contestants. Get a good grasp of what these rules are. What is considered a foul, and how can fighters lose a match? When you combine knowledge of how the game works with knowledge of fighting styles, you can take a look at odds and the lineup, and be able to tell which bets to stick with and what markets to bet on.

Consider Injuries

All combat sports come with injuries, and the UFC is referred to as the ultimate combat sports event. It is not strange that many fighters are sidelined for months or years because of an injury. However, bettors should look out for how injuries might affect a fighter’s style and skill when they return to the ring.

Pay attention to news surrounding the UFC. Find out the type of injuries these fighters have and the effect it might have on them. A knee injury might make the fighters slower than they used to be. An injury in certain areas of the body might leave the fighter open to attack.

How did they spend the time outside the ring? Most fighters tend to stay in shape, but this isn’t always the case.

Finally, if the fighter lost their last match through a knockout, you might want to factor in the effect such a mental strain would have on their abilities.

Check Out Fighter Stats

All UFC fighters’ records are made available to the public, and it is one of the best places to check when sizing up odds. Of course, bookmarkers already consider these records when creating the odds, but records can be deceiving.

If you have a match you want to bet on, take a closer look at the records of the two fighters. The favorite might have a portfolio of wins, but it could be against inferior competition. However, an underdog might be losing against elites. In this situation, the underdog might just have enough tricks up his sleeve to pull an upset victory.

Another way to size up your opponents is to compare their previous fights. If they have come across the same opponents, compare how well they fared against said opponents. However, if fighters A and B have both encountered fighter C, and A came out on top, while B lost to C, it does not translate to B losing to A.

Consider all the tips we have mentioned in this guide and you will be able to make wiser betting decisions.

Where to Bet on UFC Fights

Introduction

With the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) gaining unprecedented popularity worldwide, the excitement surrounding the fights extends beyond the octagon. For many fans, the thrill is heightened by the opportunity to place bets on their favorite fighters.

However, with numerous online betting platforms available, choosing the right sportsbook can be a daunting task. From established sportsbooks to specialized betting sites, the options are endless.

This is why, in this guide, we will navigate the world of UFC sportsbooks, and offer you the best insights on where to place your wagers for the best value. We will also consider some of the key factors you should look out for including the variety of betting options offered, the reliability of the platform, and the bonuses available.

How Did We Make Our Picks?

We are a team dedicated to sports betting, including mixed martial arts and the UFC. We know how daunting choosing a sportsbook can be. So, we took it upon ourselves to do the heavy lifting.

In selecting the top destinations for UFC betting, we conducted thorough research and comparative analysis to ensure that our picks offer the best possible experience for bettors. We narrowed our chances down using the following criteria:

  • Reputation and trustworthiness
  • Variety of betting options
  • Competitive odds
  • Coverage of UFC events
  • User experience and interface
  • Bonuses and promotions

Working with these criteria, we identified the best MMA betting sites that offer the best combination of reliability, competitiveness, variety, coverage, bonuses, and user experience, So let’s give you all the information you need to make empowered decisions.

The Best UFC Betting Sites

Here is a list of the 6 best UFC betting sites in the United States in 2024:

FanDuel

If you are a seasoned bettor, it should not come as a surprise that FanDuel is at the top of our list. Listed as one of the best sports betting sites, FanDuel is not specific to the UFC; however, they provide solid and extensive service to bettors who want to wager on their platform. 

A favorite feature of ours is their newly revamped welcome promo, a bet & win deal. If you wager $5 and win, you will get $150 in bonus bet. There is no promo code or any other terms and conditions. All you have to do is bet and win.

So if you are betting on a favorite, and they win, the bonus is yours, regardless of the odds. There are also no restrictions on how you can use the bonus you won.

However, this bonus isn’t the only reason FanDuel is topping our list. Here is a list of other features we found interesting:

A Wide Range of Bets Including Props

Fanduel offers a wide range of bets for each betting market. This is especially true for prop bets. While some other sportsbooks tend to reduce their prop bets, FanDuel continues offering bettors unique prop bets to pick from. You can choose to bet on the round the match will end or even the method of victory.

Their Analytics Team

Nothing helps bettors shape their wagers as much as research and information. FanDuel knows this, so, in the wake of any showdown, their analytics team provides you with all the details of the matchup including vital fight stats like strike success rates and takedown accuracy of both fighters. This info can be found in the Research section of the FanDuel website and is meant to help you shape your bets.

UFC Bonus and Promos

If you have been betting on FanDuel, you’d know that they frequently dish out some great UFC promos. A great example was when they offered a $200 bonus when you bet on any match. They also offer odds boosts and special bonuses for players who create a parlay with four legs upward.

DraftKings

The second sportsbook on our list is DraftKings, a reputable name in the sports betting industry. It delivers for most sports and UFC betting is not any different.

Their welcome bonus is the best we have seen so far. You can get up to $1,000 on your first bet, without using a promo code or meeting any other requirement. Even if the fighter you wagered on loses the match, you would still get your bonus. It does not get easier than this.

Here are other reasons why DraftKings is one of the best options for bettors:

Dedicated Promos

If you love betting on major UFC events, DraftKings is probably your best bet. They are the UFC’s official daily fantasy and sports betting partner, so they usually tie many of their promos to major UFC events. Do not be surprised when you find a bonus as high as $200 for a wager of $5 on a UFC headliner event.

Powerful Mobile App

Most people prefer to bet on their favorite fighters on the go, and DraftKings’ mobile betting app makes it easy. The app is easy to use with a sleek and smooth user interface. It is also packed with features such as biometric logins and push notifications.

Stats Hub

Like FanDuel, DraftKings also has its own info hub. They call it their Stats Hub, and it is full of important matchup information such as 90% of the wagers backing a favorite to win by a knockout or how good the fighter has fared against southpaws. You can also find betting details like the props with the most value in the past years. With details like this, you can make better betting strategies.

Caesars

Caesars has managed to craft one of the most reputable and prestigious gambling legacies for itself. Their gambling services are unmatched by many U.S. sportsbooks, and they have managed to carry this excellence over to their UFC betting services.

Caesars offers a unique welcome bonus to new bettors using their platform. You get a refund of your best bet up to $1,000 if your first bet does not pull through. It is supposed to be some form of do-over. To get this bonus use the Caesars Sportsbook Promo code SBRBONUS1000 when creating your account.

Here are reasons Caesers made it to the top 3 of our best UFC online sportsbooks:

Big Welcome Promo

Caesars loves to go big, and they do so from the very beginning with their insurance bonus. This bonus allows you to place a redemption bet if your first wager fails. The bonus is not risk-free, but it offers a level of insurance that most sportsbooks will not offer.

Great Pricing

Caesars is known for carrying the best sharpest moneyline odds for UFC matchups for both underdogs and favorites. For instance, other sites on this list might be carrying a game with odds of -104 and +122, while caesars might have it at -100 and +115. These might look like minor differences but they quickly add up, especially for bettors who bet big and bet often.

Unique Bets

Caesars does not offer the widest range of betting markets, but what they lack in quantity, they make up for in interesting betting lines. One such unique betting option is the potential fights option where bettors can bet on the likelihood of certain matchups happening. The players get a refund if the fight does not happen.

BetMGM

BetMGM has a long and deep history with the UFC. The betting platform is the daughter company of MGM Resorts. They have hosted some reputable UFC fights at their MGM Grand Garden Arena. This relationship continued even after they opened the recent T-Mobile Arena.

It has become clear that BetMGM shares a synergistic relationship with the UFC. They have taken this synergy and created one of the best UFC betting sites. This is clearly seen from their welcome bonus where you get $150 after wagering $5. You also get this bonus regardless of whether you win or lose the bet. To get this bonus, apply the bonus Code SBRBONUS when signing up.

The great welcome bonus is not the only reason this platform is so great. Here are a few reasons this website managed to make it onto this list:

Live Betting

The matches that take place in the octagon are both exhilarating and unpredictable. A misstep and fights can move in the opposite direction, It is in this unpredictability that the excitement lies for quick bettors. And BetMGM happens to be one of the few casinos to offer these bettors what they need to take advantage of this: Live Betting. To complete the experience, they also offer streaming services, so you can bet while you watch all without leaving the platform.

Cool Promos

The welcome offer is great but beyond it lies a bunch of other UFC-specific promos and bonuses. These promos are centered around big UFC events and are always easy to win. You almost feel guilty taking the bonuses. A great example of bonuses like this is the UFC 277 match, where they offered a $200 bonus if you bet $10 on either fighter getting a punch in. It wouldn’t be much of an MMA match if the fighters didn’t land at least one punch.

Parlay Option

BetMGM’s creative team deserves a raise. With each UFC event, they come up with new and exciting betting options, especially their unique parlays. This is especially creative because UFC events are typically not standard parlay materials. However, BetMGM offers a great way to stack up on your most anticipated fights and favorite fighters.

Fanatics Sportsbook UFC

Fanatics Sportsbook is a new entry into the UFC betting scene. They entered this scene after acquiring PointsBet. They cover all the basic betting markets including moneylines, Over/Under, round betting, method/round combo, method of victory, double chance, and all the other popular wagering categories.

The welcome bonus for this sportsbook took us by surprise. When you make a first wager of $100, you get a $100 bonus each day for the next 10 days. However, we found that they post their UFC bets later than those of other sports.

Let’s take a look at other reasons this platform made it onto this list:

Live Betting

We have established that only a few UFC betting platforms allow for real-time betting while the matches are going on. On this list of the 6 best UFC betting sites, only two platforms offer this option.

So if you are using Fanatics Sportsbook as your betting website, and you notice the direction of the match changing, you can log onto the website and grab odds in real-time.

User-friendly Interface

Fanatics Sportsbook makes it easy for bettors to wager on their favorite sports. They have a dedicated MMA category where you can find all UFC-related bets. They also break the menu down into fight cards so you can easily select the ones you want to wager on. This level of user-friendliness is rarely seen among sportsbooks.

Available on Mobile

Bettors who enjoy betting with their mobile devices, i.e. IOS and Android, can do so using the Fanatic Sportsbook mobile apps. The app is easy to use and easy on the eyes. They also offer the rarely-seen parlay option.

Bet365

Last on our list of best online UFC Sportsbooks is Bet365. They are UFC’s betting partner and offer services all the way to the U.K. and Ireland. Bet365 carries an impressive roster with full betting options for all fights.

Bet365 also offers a unique welcome bonus to players. You literally get to pick your bonus from two mouthwatering options. You can opt for the $150 when you bet $5 option or the $1,000 first bet safety net option.

Below are more reasons this website is on this list:

Attractive Odds Boosts

From time to time, sportsbooks offer odds boosts for select sports events. Odds boosts are a promotional strategy to attract bettors by offering enhanced odds on selected events or outcomes. Essentially, odds boosts increase the potential payout for specific bets, providing bettors with improved odds compared to the standard market odds.

Most sportsbooks that offer odds boosts tend to ignore UFC odds and focus on more mainstream sports, like the NBA and the NFL. Bet365 is one of the only sportsbooks that provides odds boosts for UF matchups so UFC fans get the full package.

Edit Your Bet

We all know how it feels when you are sure about a particular bet as you are adding it to your slip. But halfway through the next day, you are not sure about that bet anymore and you wish you could tweak it a little 

Bet365 is also one of the few UFC betting sites that lets you edit your bet after submission. You can make changes, swap out your choices, or drop an entire leg of a parlay. Of course, the changes you make to the odds will affect your payout, but it is still a great feature.

Market Variety

Bet365 offers the same variety of betting markets as the top two sites on this list: FanDuel and Draftsking. You can bet on all possible UFC betting lines from moneyline to Over/Under. You can also bet on unique props such as the number of times a fighter attempted a takedown.

A betting line we found particularly interesting was the method of victory double chance where you can choose two ways you think the fight will end, doubling your chances of a cashout.

How to Get Started on UFC Betting Sites

Now that we have seen the list of our top picks for UFC betting sites, let’s talk about how you can start betting on these sites. It’s a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential we approach it with caution and responsibility. Here is our step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Research and Choose a Reputable Betting Site

We have provided you with a list of top-notch reputable betting sites. However, this does not stop you from carrying out your own research. Research and select a reputable UFC betting site. Look for platforms with a solid reputation, positive reviews, proper licensing, and a user-friendly interface. Ensure the site offers a variety of betting options, competitive odds, and robust security measures to protect your personal and financial information.

Create an Account

The next step after picking a sportsbook is to create an account. This typically involves providing basic personal information such as your name, email address, and date of birth. Depending on the platform you choose, you might have to go through additional verification steps to comply with regulatory requirements.

Deposit Funds

After creating your account, you’ll need to deposit funds into your betting account to place bets. Most betting sites offer a variety of deposit options, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and prepaid cards. Choose the option that’s most convenient for you and follow the instructions to make a deposit. Do not forget to research the welcome bonuses the platform might have. These are often tied to your first deposit or wager.

Familiarize Yourself with Betting Options

Before placing any bets, take some time to familiarize yourself with the different betting options available for UFC fights. These may include moneyline bets (betting on the winner of a fight), prop bets (betting on specific outcomes or events within a fight), round betting (betting on which round a fight will end), and live betting (betting on fights in real-time as they unfold).

Research Fighters and Matchups

Take a head count of the most popular fighters and even the not-so-popular ones. Research them and their matchups in upcoming UFC events. Consider factors such as fighters’ records, fighting styles, recent performances, injuries, and head-to-head matchups when evaluating betting opportunities. Some sportsbooks also have features like Info Hubs that do some of the job for you.

Place Your Bets

Once you have researched the fighters and the matchups, place your bets. Navigate to the UFC section of your chosen sportsbook, choose the fight or fights you are interested in wagering on, and select the type of bet you want to place. Enter the amount you want to wager and confirm your bet to lock it in.

Ensure your deposit meets the criteria for a deposit bonus so you can claim it when the time is due.

Manage Your Bankroll

Responsible management of funds is crucial when betting on UFC fights and other types of sports. Set a budget for your activities and stick to it, and only wager what you can afford to lose. Do not bet more than you are comfortable with or chase losses in desperation. Some sportsbooks offer features like deposit limits and self-exclusion if you need help with controlling your bankroll.

Enjoy the Action and Cashout

With your bets placed, sit back, relax, and enjoy the thrill that comes from a UFC fight night. If the picks you made win the match, navigate to your balance and you will see an amount ready for withdrawal. Follow the banking steps specified and you will have your money in your account. 

How To Choose the Best UFC Betting Site

We have indeed provided you with our top picks of UFC betting sites. And we have tried to stay as objective as possible, but you might want to search for the best UFC betting site for yourself. This is valid as most people have preferences and what they look out for when choosing a sportsbook.

So go ahead and look, but try to look out for the following features:

Mobile Compatibility

More and more people are betting on their mobile devices and you are probably one of them. So look out for UFC betting sites that are optimized for mobile devices. Look for platforms with responsive mobile sites or dedicated mobile apps that allow you to bet on UFC fights from anywhere, anytime.

Comprehensive Coverage of MMA Markets

The best UFC betting sites offer comprehensive coverage of UFC events, including a wide range of fights and betting options. The more betting lines the sportsbook offers, the higher your chances of winning with one of them is. Also, look for platforms that provide coverage of both main card and preliminary fights, as well as live betting options for real-time wagering during events.

Competitive Odds

Competitive odds are crucial for maximizing potential winnings when betting on UFC fights. The truth is you won’t be able to find a single site that always leads when it comes to odds. However, seek out a few betting sites that consistently offer the best odds and keep them in rotation. Check out these options whenever you want to bet on a fight and use the sportsbook that offers the best odds for that fight.

Bonuses and Promotions

Generous bonuses and promotions add value to your UFC betting experience by providing additional incentives and rewards. Look for betting sites that offer welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, free bets, and other promotions specifically tailored to MMA betting. Of course, these promos are not as easy to come by, but they exist.

Live Betting Options

Life betting increases the excitement and intensity of a UFC brawl as you get to bet as the action unfolds. This becomes even more exciting if the sportsbook includes live streaming options.

Live streaming options allow bettors to watch fights directly on the platform while placing bets in real-time. Live streaming enhances the overall betting experience and provides bettors with up-to-the-minute action and insights.

Variety of Betting Options

A diverse selection of betting options is a must-have for any good sportsbook. It gives bettors the chance to tailor their wagers to their preferences and strategies. Look for UFC betting sites that offer a wide range of bet types, including moneyline bets, prop bets, round betting, parlays, and live betting options.

User-Friendly Interface

With so many sportsbooks around, you probably do not want one that makes it difficult to wager on your favorite UFC matches. A user-friendly interface is essential for a seamless betting experience. Choose UFC betting sites with intuitive interfaces that make it simple to find and place bets on upcoming fights, view odds, and manage your betting account.

Banking Methods and Payout Speed

You would want to go for sportsbooks that offer a variety of banking options. While it might not be one of the most important factors to consider, several payment methods ensure you can make your bets at any time.

You also want a sportsbook that offers swift payouts. Most sportsbooks offer swift deposits, but sweet payouts and withdrawals are more important.

Reliable Customer Support

Responsive and reliable customer support is essential for resolving any issues or inquiries that may arise while betting on UFC fights. Choose betting sites with knowledgeable customer support teams available via live chat, email, or phone to assist you whenever needed.

FAQs

How do I Calculate Potential Winnings from a UFC Bet?

To calculate potential winnings from a UFC bet, simply multiply your wager by the decimal odds offered for your selected outcome. Subtract your initial wager from the total to determine your profit.

Can I Bet on Specific Fight Outcomes, Like Knockouts or Submissions?

Yes, many UFC betting sites offer prop bets on specific fight outcomes, including fight durations, knockouts, and submissions. These prop bets add a layer of excitement to your UFC betting experience and allow you to wager on specific aspects of a fight.

Are There Any Strategies I Should Use When Betting on UFV Fights?

Some common UFC betting strategies include researching fighters’ records, analyzing fighting styles and matchups, and considering factors like injuries and recent performances. It’s also important to manage your bankroll responsibly and avoid betting based solely on emotions.

Can I Bet on UFC Fights Online?

Yes, you can bet on UFC fights online through various sports betting platforms. These platforms offer a wide range of betting options, including moneyline bets, prop bets, and live betting, making it convenient to wager on your favorite fighters from the comfort of your own home.

Is Live Betting Available for UFC Fights?

Yes, many sportsbooks offer live betting for UFC fights, allowing you to place bets in real-time as the action unfolds.

*Bonus Tip* – Want the best UFC odds? America’s Bookie has consistently had the best odds on a lot of fights. They’re almost always the best in the industry on big UFC favorites too!


Find out why getting the best UFC betting lines is important in our line shopping article.



https://www.youtube.com/embed/NOPTJFCu_N0


Betting on UFC Parlays


Need advise where to place your bet? Check our Sportsbook Reviews


About the Author
Scott Jack
Click to Contact
DocSports, The most trusted name in sports handicapping