UFC Betting: A Full Beginner’s Guide 2025

Welcome, future UFC bettor! If you’re looking to make fight night even more exciting, you’re in the right place. This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know about betting on UFC fights—step by step. No confusing jargon, just clear and simple info to help you place your first smart wager with confidence.

A. What Is UFC Betting?

UFC betting is just what it sounds like—placing money on the outcome of a UFC fight. You’re predicting who you think will win, how they’ll win, or even how long the fight will last. It’s one way to turn your fight knowledge into potential profit. If you already enjoy watching mixed martial arts, betting can take that excitement up a notch.

B. Why Bet on UFC?

Betting adds more thrill to every punch, kick, and takedown. When you’ve got a little money on the line, the action feels more intense—and way more personal. But it’s not just about the rush. If you learn how to read matchups, study fighters, and understand betting odds, you can start making smart picks and maybe even earn a profit. It’s not about blind luck—it’s about betting with strategy.

C. A Quick Note on Responsible Gambling

Before we get into the fun stuff, let’s be clear: betting should be entertainment, not a way to make a living. Only bet money you can afford to lose. Set a budget, stick to it, and don’t chase losses. If you ever feel like betting is becoming a problem, take a step back and reach out for help. Your health and peace of mind are way more important than any bet.

Understanding the Basics of UFC

Before placing your first bet, it’s important to understand how UFC fights work. The more you know about the sport, the better your chances of making smart bets.

A. What Is UFC and MMA?

MMA stands for Mixed Martial Arts—a combat sport that mixes striking (like punches, kicks, elbows, knees) and grappling (like wrestling, judo, and submissions). The UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) is the top MMA organization in the world. Fighters compete in an eight-sided cage, known as the Octagon, and aim to win by knockout, submission, or judges’ decision.

B. Key Parts of a UFC Fight

Weight Classes

To keep fights fair, athletes are grouped by weight. Here are the most common UFC weight classes:

• Flyweight: 125 lbs

• Bantamweight: 135 lbs

• Featherweight: 145 lbs

• Lightweight: 155 lbs

• Welterweight: 170 lbs

• Middleweight: 185 lbs

• Light Heavyweight: 205 lbs

• Heavyweight: up to 265 lbs

Knowing weight classes matters—fighters perform differently at different weights.

Fight Types

• Standard Bout: A regular fight on the card.
• Championship Bout: A fight for a UFC title, usually five rounds.
• Main Event: The final, most anticipated fight of an event, typically five rounds.
• Co-Main Event: The second-to-last fight, often a significant matchup. Most non-championship and non-main event fights are three rounds.

Rounds and Time Limits

Standard fights consist of three five-minute rounds. Championship fights and main events are five five-minute rounds. Knowing the number of rounds is important for betting on “over/under rounds” or predicting late-fight finishes.

Ways to Win

• KO (Knockout): A fighter is rendered unconscious by strikes.
• TKO (Technical Knockout): The referee stops the fight due to strikes, or a doctor/corner stops the fight.
• Submission: A fighter taps out or verbally submits due to a submission hold.
• Decision: If the fight goes the full distance, judges score each round, and a winner is declared (Unanimous, Split, or Majority Decision).
• DQ (Disqualification): A fighter is disqualified for illegal moves.

How Judges Score Fights

In rounds that go to the judges, the winner of the round receives 10 points, and the loser receives 9 points (or sometimes 8 for a dominant round, or even 7 in rare cases). Judges evaluate effective striking, effective grappling, aggression, and octagon control.

Types of UFC Bets for Beginners

Now that you know how UFC fights work, let’s look at the most common types of bets you can place. These beginner-friendly options are the perfect place to start.

A. Moneyline Bet (To Win)

This is the easiest type of UFC bet. You just pick who you think will win the fight—doesn’t matter how or when.

Understanding Favorites (-) and Underdogs (+)

• A minus sign (-) means the fighter is the favorite. You need to bet more money to win less.

  • Example: -200 means you need to bet $200 to win $100.

• A plus sign (+) means the fighter is the underdog. You can win more money with a smaller bet.

  • Example: +150 means a $100 bet wins you $150.

Most sportsbooks show your potential payout when you enter your bet, so you don’t have to calculate it by hand.

B. Over/Under Rounds (Total Rounds)

Here, you’re betting on how long the fight will last—not who wins.

Let’s say the sportsbook lists Over/Under 2.5 Rounds:

• Over 2.5 Rounds: The fight must last more than 2.5 rounds. That’s at least 2 minutes and 31 seconds into Round 3.

• Under 2.5 Rounds: The fight must end before that point.

This is a popular bet if you think a fight will end quickly—or go the distance.

C. Method of Victory

This bet is about picking both who will win and how they’ll win. It’s harder to guess, but it pays more.

You might see options like:

• Fighter A by KO/TKO

• Fighter A by Submission

• Fighter A by Decision

• Fighter B by KO/TKO

• Fighter B by Submission

• Fighter B by Decision

• Draw (rare, but available)

If you know a fighter’s style—like if they always win by knockout—this bet can offer great value.

D. Round Betting

Round betting is super specific—you’re picking who wins and in which round.

Example: Fighter A to win in Round 1

It’s a high-risk, high-reward type of bet. Great if you think a fight won’t last long or if a fighter is known for early finishes.

E. Parlays

A parlay is one bet that includes multiple picks. To win the parlay, every pick (called a leg) must win.

Why do bettors love parlays? The payouts can be big—because the odds of each leg are multiplied together.

But here’s the catch: If even one leg loses, the whole parlay loses.

Parlays are fun and exciting but carry more risk. Beginners should use them carefully.

F. Futures Bets

Futures are bets on something that will happen down the road, not just in the next fight.

Examples:

• Who will be the lightweight champ by the end of the year?

• Will Fighter X win their next 3 fights?

These long-term bets often come with higher odds—and more patience.

How to Read UFC Odds (Made Simple)

To bet smart, you’ve got to know how to read odds. They show you how much you can win—and how likely the sportsbook thinks an outcome is.

Let’s break down the three most common formats.

A. American Odds

This is the format most U.S. sportsbooks use.

• Negative Odds (-) = The favorite

  • Example: -200 means you must bet $200 to win $100

• Positive Odds (+) = The underdog

  • Example: +150 means you bet $100 to win $150

Converting Odds to Implied Probability

Want to know the chance the sportsbook thinks something will happen?

• For negative odds:
  Odds / (Odds + 100) * 100
  Example: -200 = 200 / (200 + 100) = 66.67%

• For positive odds:
  100 / (Odds + 100) * 100
  Example: **+150 = 100 / (150 + 100) = 40%`

This helps you spot when the odds don’t match what your research says. That’s called value betting—and it’s how sharp bettors win.

B. Decimal Odds

Popular in Europe and Australia, decimal odds show your total return, including your bet.

• Example: 2.50 means a $100 bet returns $250
  (That’s $150 profit + $100 original stake)

The higher the number, the less likely the sportsbook thinks that outcome will happen.

C. Fractional Odds

Common in the UK, fractional odds show how much you’ll profit compared to your stake.

• Example: 3/2 (read “three to two”) means for every $2 you bet, you win $3

  • A $100 bet would return $250 total ($150 profit + $100 stake)

D. Switching Odds Formats

Most sportsbooks let you choose how odds are displayed in your account settings. American odds are most popular in the U.S., but it’s good to understand all three—especially if you shop around on different platforms.

Research and Analysis: Making Smart UFC Bets

Successful UFC betting isn’t just about luck; it’s about making informed decisions. This requires diligent research and analysis.

A. Fighter Analysis

Deep-diving into each fighter is paramount.

1. Recent Performance: Look beyond just wins and losses. Who were their opponents? Were the wins dominant or close? Were the losses against top contenders or lesser opponents? A fighter on a winning streak against low-level competition might not fare well against a top-ranked opponent.

2. Fight Style Matchups: This is often the most critical factor.

Striker vs. Grappler: Can the grappler get the fight to the ground? Can the striker keep it standing and defend takedowns?

Wrestler vs. Jiu-Jitsu Specialist: Can the wrestler control the specialist on the ground without getting submitted?

Consider how their offensive strengths align with their opponent’s defensive weaknesses, and vice-versa.

3. Physical Attributes: Height and reach can be significant advantages, especially for strikers. Age is also a factor; fighters generally peak in their late 20s to early 30s, but this varies.

4. Training Camp and Coaches: Has the fighter made any significant changes to their camp? A new coach or a move to a renowned gym can sometimes signal improvements.

5. Injuries and Layoffs: Long layoffs can lead to “ring rust.” Recent injuries, even if claimed to be healed, can impact performance or lead to early stoppages. Pay attention to how long a fighter has been out of action.

B. Fight History and Statistics

Utilize online databases (like UFC.com, Sherdog, Tapology) to review detailed fight statistics:

• Significant strikes landed/absorbed: Who is more accurate? Who takes more damage?
• Takedown accuracy/defense: How often do they land takedowns? How often do they defend them?
• Control time: How long do they keep opponents on the ground?
• These numbers provide objective insights into a fighter’s tendencies and effectiveness.

C. News and Social Media

Stay updated with the latest news.

• Weigh-ins: Do fighters look healthy and on weight? A difficult weight cut can severely impact performance.
• Interviews: Listen to what fighters and coaches say. Are they confident? Are there any red flags?
• Last-minute news: Keep an eye out for any late changes, injuries, or illnesses that could affect the fight.

D. Understanding Odds Movement

Odds are not static; they change based on betting volume, news, and other factors.

• Why odds change: If a lot of money comes in on one fighter, their odds will shorten (become less profitable), and the opponent’s odds will lengthen (become more profitable).
• What it might indicate: Significant odds movement can sometimes signal “sharp money” (bets from professional bettors) or insider information. However, don’t blindly follow line movements; use them as another piece of information to consider.

Bankroll Management and Betting Discipline

Even the best bettors lose sometimes. That’s why managing your money is just as important as picking winners. If you skip this part, you risk going broke—even with good picks.

A. Set a Budget

The golden rule: only bet what you can afford to lose. This money should be separate from your living expenses, savings, or emergency funds. Decide on a total amount you’re willing to dedicate to betting over a specific period (e.g., per month, per event).

B. Use Units

A “unit” is a consistent amount you bet on each wager, usually a small percentage of your total bankroll (e.g., 1-5%).

• If your bankroll is $1,000, a 1-unit bet might be $10 (1%).
• You bet more units on bets you’re more confident in, and fewer on riskier ones. This prevents you from losing a large chunk of your bankroll on a single bad pick.

C. Don’t Chase Losses

This is one of the biggest pitfalls for new bettors. If you lose a bet, resist the urge to immediately place a larger bet to try and win back what you lost. This often leads to even bigger losses. Stick to your unit sizing and budget, and accept that losses are a part of betting.

D. Know When to Walk Away

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to take a break:

• You’re betting more than you planned

• You feel stressed or angry when you lose

• You’re hiding your betting from friends or family

• You’re skipping work or responsibilities to bet

Betting should be fun—not a problem. If it stops being fun, step back and get help. You can visit ncpgambling.org for support.

Choosing a Trusted Sportsbook

Where you place your bets is just as important as what bets you place. Choosing a trustworthy and reliable sportsbook is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read Also:

• Top 10 UFC Betting Sites 
• Best UFC Fighter to Bet on
• Analysis of Kamzat Chimaev for Betting
• How to bet on UFC during Live Fight

A. Licensing and Regulation

In the U.S., sports betting is regulated at the state level. It’s crucial to ensure that any sportsbook you use is legally licensed and regulated in your specific state. This guarantees consumer protection, fair play, and that your funds are secure. If sports betting is not yet legal in your state, it’s essential to wait until it is, as using unregulated or offshore sites carries significant risks, including lack of consumer protection, potential difficulty with withdrawals, and security vulnerabilities. Always check your local laws to confirm legality.

B. Odds and Payouts

Compare the odds offered by different sportsbooks. Even small differences can add up over time. Also, check their payout limits and speed of withdrawals.

C. Bonuses and Promotions

Many sportsbooks offer enticing incentives for new users, such as:

• Sign-up bonuses: Often a deposit match or a “risk-free” bet.
• Free bets: A credit you can use to place a wager without risking your own money.
• Loyalty programs: Rewards for consistent betting. Always read the terms and conditions for these promotions, as they often come with wagering requirements.

D. Payment Methods

Check what deposit and withdrawal options are available (e.g., credit/debit cards, PayPal, bank transfers, e-wallets). Look for methods that are convenient for you, have reasonable fees, and offer quick processing times.

E. Customer Support

Good customer support is vital. Look for sportsbooks that offer multiple contact methods (live chat, email, phone) and have responsive, helpful representatives.

F. User Interface and Mobile Experience

A user-friendly interface makes placing bets easy and enjoyable. Test out their website and mobile app to ensure they are intuitive, fast, and reliable. A good mobile experience is essential for betting on the go.

Watching UFC Fights in the U.S.

To bet smart, you’ve got to watch the fights. Here’s how to catch them live:

A. ESPN+ and Pay-Per-View (PPV)

• ESPN+ is the main home for UFC in the U.S.
  You’ll find most Fight Nights and prelims here.

• UFC numbered events (like UFC 300) are PPV only, and you need an ESPN+ subscription to buy them.

B. Cable or Streaming Bundles

If you already have cable or a live TV streaming service that includes ESPN, you may be able to access UFC content through those apps too.

C. Sports Bars

Many bars show big UFC cards, especially PPVs. This is a great option if you want to watch with friends or soak in the crowd energy. Just call ahead to make sure they’re showing the fights.

Step-by-Step: Placing Your First UFC Bet

Ready to place your first wager? Here’s a simple guide to get you started.

A. Account Creation

1. Choose a Sportsbook: Select a reputable, licensed sportsbook that operates in your state (refer to Section VII).
2. Sign Up: Click on the “Sign Up” or “Join Now” button.
3. Provide Information: You’ll need to provide personal details like your name, address, date of birth (to verify you’re 21+ in most states), and Social Security Number (for identity verification and tax purposes).
4. Create Credentials: Choose a username and a strong password.

B. Depositing Funds

1. Navigate to Deposit: Once logged in, find the “Deposit” or “Cashier” section.
2. Select Method: Choose your preferred payment method (e.g., credit card, PayPal, bank transfer).
3. Enter Amount: Input the amount you wish to deposit, keeping your budget in mind.
4. Confirm: Follow the prompts to complete the transaction. Your funds should appear in your account almost instantly.

C. Navigating to UFC/MMA Section

1. Find Sports List: On the sportsbook’s website or app, look for a list of sports, usually on the left-hand side or in a main menu.
2. Select MMA/UFC: Click on “MMA” or “UFC” to see upcoming fights and events.

D. Selecting a Fight and Bet Type

1. Choose an Event: Select the specific UFC event you want to bet on (e.g., UFC 300).
2. Pick a Fight: Browse the fight card and select the matchup you’re interested in.
3. Select Your Bet: Click on the odds next to the fighter or outcome you want to bet on (e.g., the moneyline for your chosen fighter, or “Over 2.5 Rounds”). This will usually add it to your “bet slip.”

E. Entering Bet Amount (Stake)

1. View Bet Slip: Your selected bet(s) will appear in a “bet slip” (usually on the right side of the screen).
2. Enter Stake: In the designated box, type in the amount of money you want to wager (your “stake”). The bet slip will automatically calculate your potential payout.

F. Confirming the Bet

1. Review: Double-check your selection and the stake amount.
2. Place Bet: Click the “Place Bet” or “Confirm Bet” button.
3. Confirmation: You’ll receive a confirmation message that your bet has been placed. Good luck!

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, new bettors can fall into common traps. Being aware of these can help you steer clear of them.

A. Betting with Emotion

Never let your fandom or personal feelings override logical analysis. Betting on your favorite fighter just because you like them, even when the matchup doesn’t favor them, is a recipe for losing money. Stick to objective research.

B. Over-Betting (Too Many Fights/Too High Stakes)

Don’t feel pressured to bet on every single fight on a card. Focus on matchups where you feel you have a strong read. Similarly, avoid betting more than your established unit size just because you feel a fight is a “lock.”

C. Not Doing Enough Research

Placing bets based on a fighter’s name recognition or a quick glance at their record is a common mistake. As detailed in Section V, thorough research into styles, recent form, and statistics is crucial.

D. Ignoring Bankroll Management

As discussed in Section VI, failing to set a budget and stick to unit sizing is the fastest way to deplete your funds and turn betting from fun into a stressful experience.

E. Chasing “Locks” (Guaranteed Wins)

There are no “guaranteed wins” in sports betting, especially in a sport as unpredictable as MMA. Every fight has an element of risk. Be wary of anyone promising sure things.

F. Relying Solely on Public Opinion

If everyone is betting on one fighter, their odds will often become less favorable. Sometimes, the public gets it wrong. Don’t just follow the crowd; trust your own research and analysis.

Smart UFC Betting Tips for Newbies

Beyond avoiding mistakes, here are some proactive tips to help you start your UFC betting journey on the right foot.

A. Start Small and Learn

Begin with small bets, even just a few dollars per wager. This allows you to gain experience, understand how odds work, and learn the betting process without significant financial risk. Your early bets are part of your learning curve.

B. Focus on a Few Fighters/Divisions

Instead of trying to become an expert on every fighter across all weight classes, pick a few divisions or a handful of fighters to specialize in. The more intimately you understand their styles, strengths, weaknesses, and recent performances, the better your predictions will be.

C. Value Betting: Finding Discrepancies in Odds

“Value betting” is about finding situations where you believe the sportsbook’s odds underestimate a fighter’s true probability of winning. For example, if a sportsbook lists a fighter at +200 (25% implied probability), but your research suggests they have a 35% chance of winning, that’s a value bet. This is where your research pays off.

D. Don’t Be Afraid to Bet Against the Public

Sometimes, the general betting public will heavily favor one fighter, driving their odds down. If your research indicates the underdog has a better chance than the odds suggest, don’t be afraid to go against the grain. This is often where true value can be found.

E. Keep Records of Your Bets

Maintain a simple spreadsheet or use a betting tracker app. Record:

• The fight and fighters
• The type of bet
• The odds
• Your stake
• The outcome (win/loss)
• Your profit/loss This helps you analyze your performance, identify patterns, and learn from your successes and mistakes.

Beyond the Basics (Briefly Mentioned for Future Learning)

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, you might explore more advanced strategies.

A. Live Betting (In-Play Betting)

Placing bets during a fight as the action unfolds. Odds constantly change based on what’s happening in the Octagon. This requires quick decision-making and a deep understanding of fight dynamics.

B. Hedging Bets

Placing a second bet on the opposite outcome of your initial bet, often in a parlay, to guarantee a profit or minimize losses. This is typically done when one leg of a parlay has already won, and you want to secure some winnings.

C. Arbitrage Betting

Finding discrepancies in odds across different sportsbooks that allow you to bet on all possible outcomes of a fight and guarantee a profit, regardless of the result. These opportunities are rare and require quick action.

FAQ: UFC Betting for Beginners

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that beginners often have.

A. Is UFC betting legal?

Yes, UFC betting (and sports betting in general) is legal in many U.S. states. However, the legality varies by state. You must be in a state where sports betting is regulated and legal to place bets with a licensed sportsbook. Always check your local laws.

B. What’s the minimum bet amount?

Minimum bet amounts vary by sportsbook, but they are often as low as $0.10 or $1.00, making it easy for beginners to start small.

C. How do I withdraw my winnings?

Most sportsbooks offer various withdrawal methods, including direct bank transfers, PayPal, e-wallets, or even physical checks. You’ll typically request a withdrawal through the “Cashier” or “Withdrawal” section of your account. Be aware that processing times can vary.

D. What happens if a fight is canceled?

If a fight is canceled before it starts, your bet will almost always be voided, and your stake will be returned to your account. If the fight starts but is stopped early due to an accidental foul (No Contest), rules vary by sportsbook, but often bets are voided.

E. Can I bet on a draw?

Yes, most sportsbooks offer “Draw” as a method of victory option, though it’s a rare outcome in UFC and typically comes with very high odds. Some sportsbooks might offer a “Draw No Bet” option, where if the fight is a draw, your money is returned.

Glossary of UFC Betting Terms

• Moneyline: A bet on which fighter will win.
• Parlay: A single bet that combines multiple individual wagers; all must win for the parlay to pay out.
• Prop Bet (Proposition Bet): A bet on a specific event within a fight that doesn’t necessarily concern the outcome (e.g., “Will the fight go to decision?”).
• Underdog: The fighter less likely to win, indicated by positive (+) odds.
• Favorite: The fighter more likely to win, indicated by negative (-) odds.
• Juice/Vig (Vigorish): The commission or fee that the sportsbook charges for taking your bet, built into the odds.
• Push: When a bet results in a tie, and your original stake is returned.
• KO/TKO: Knockout/Technical Knockout.
• Submission: When a fighter taps out or verbally submits.
• Decision: When a fight goes the full distance, and judges determine the winner.
• Bankroll: The total amount of money you’ve set aside for betting.
• Unit: A consistent amount you bet per wager, used for bankroll management.
• Stake: The amount of money you wager on a single bet.
• Payout: The total amount of money you receive back from a winning bet (stake + profit).

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now got a comprehensive understanding of UFC betting for beginners. You’ve learned the basics of the sport, the different types of bets, how to read odds, the importance of research, and most importantly, how to bet responsibly.

Remember, betting on UFC should be an enjoyable extension of your passion for the sport. Start small, learn continuously, and always prioritize responsible gambling. With practice and diligent research, you’ll be well on your way to making smarter, more informed UFC bets. Good luck, and enjoy the fights!

Further Reading:

• How to Bet on UFC through Method of Victory
• How to Bet on UFC Underdog and Win
• How to use Bitcoin to bet on UFC