How to Play Fantasy MMA - UFC…. And How to Bet It

Fantasy MMA, especially with the UFC matchups, is becoming big business, especially with DraftKings featuring a $75,000 guarantee prize pool and $20,000 going to first place for UFC 189.

Some of you may not know how it works.  Understanding the scoring is key. 

The MMA Corner does an excellent job of explaining the concept:

For each contest, participants will be given a $50,000 salary cap to select a five-fighter lineup. The fighter pool will consist of all fighters expected to be competing in the upcoming event. Fighter salaries are determined by their past performances and they have nothing to do with what fighters are actually making.

Fighters score points in two ways. First there is move scoring; +0.5 for significant strikes, +1 for advancing position, +2 for takedowns, +2 for reversals or sweeps and +3 for knockdowns. Then there are fight conclusion bonuses; +100 for a first round win, +70 for a second round win, +50 for a third round win, +40 for a fourth round win, +40 for a fifth-round win and +25 for a decision win. Fight scoring will be based on FightMetric statistical data.

Winning/placing is based on the total score of your five fight lineup.

As for wagering on MMA and UFC events, it’s no different than with boxing.  There is one major difference: Mixed Martial Arts and UFC matchups are often viewed as more competitive with lines that reflect this. 

For example:  Conor McGregor was just a -180 favorite versus Chad Mendes +147.  You would only have to bet $18 to win $10 on McGregor (the $18 is refunded with a win) while Mendes would pay out $14.70 on a $10 bet.  Compare that with some recent boxing matches where the favorite was coming in over -160.

- Mary Montgomery, Gambling911.com