As UFC fighting and mixed martial arts continue to grow in popularity, many sports fans are anxious to learn how to bet on the UFC events. According to a few major online sports books, UFC betting is set to surpass boxing in terms of online betting revenue by the end of 2007.
For most UFC events, there are a few betting options in each event. I’ll go over each of these, and also let you know where you should start if you are new to betting.
Fighter vs. Fighter bets
The most common form of UFC betting is a fighter vs. fighter bet. Unlike sports such as basketball and football that have point spreads, the odds on UFC fights are moneyline bets. A money line is used to even out the value of betting on each fighter. Here is an example from a recent UFC fight.
Rich Franklin -210
Yushin Okami +165
In the example above Rich Franklin is the favorite and Yushin Okami is the underdog. If you were to bet on Franklin, then you would be laying $2.10 for every $1.00 you want to win. So if you were to bet $210 on Rich Franklin and he wins the bout, you would win $100 (plus the return of the $210 you risked). If you wanted to bet on Yushin Okami, you would be laying $1.00 to win $1.65. So if you were to bet $100 on Okami, and he wins the bout, you would win $165 (plus the return of the $100 you risked).
3 tips to live by when betting on UFC fights
As a professional sports bettor, I know there are many trends that carry over from sport to sport when it comes to gambling. If you’re new to betting, these tips will help you get on the right path to winning your UFC bets.
1. Stay away from heavy favorites
For some people this is common knowledge, but when fights look “too easy” or like a “sure thing”, it’s tough to remind yourself to stay away from the huge favorite. I always recommend staying away from any favorite that is over -400. When you are betting on favorites that are this big, you’re going to need to win 4 out of every 5 bets to be ahead. With the amount of upsets that happen in big time fights, it is very difficult to keep this winning percentage up over the long haul. This is why I recommend just staying away from large favorites.
2. Look for value in the under card
The main bout of a UFC fight will always get the most attention and the largest betting handle. Because of this, the money line for the bout will usually be right on point and the value of betting on either fighter is very minimal. In some of the less publicized fights, there is usually a lot of value to be found on both fighters because the general public does not know much about the fighters. If you do some research you will be ahead of the game.
3. Keep your betting amounts similar
Some new bettors have a problem of betting way too much on certain fights. The long term problem with this strategy is that you could be 9-5 on your bets which would usually be a winning record, but you could be losing a lot of money. Keeping your betting amounts similar is a good way to increase your wins and minimize your losses.
MMA and UFC betting are pretty easy to learn and win money at if you do your research. Research each of the fighters and their styles, and look for strengths, weaknesses and good underdogs and you’ll be on your way to winning. I also recommend checking out reviews of UFC sportsbooks, so you can find the best online sports book to bet at.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
The Critical Difference Between A Fighter And A Killer
Lately, here in Las Vegas, I've had the pleasure of meeting a number of Mixed Martial Arts competitors from the various "No Holds Barred" events like the UFC and Pride. For the most part these fighters were amazing physical specimens and tremendous competitors. Their skills in the arena are impressive and fun to watch. The other factor across the board is the fighters I met are very good natured guys.
At one of the events I was introduced by an MMA friend of mine to one of the top competitors and this fighter asked through his translator if I was a MMA competitor. Before I could answer, my friend (who had a couple of beers in him since he was not on this fight card) smiled and said, "Nah, this guy's a killer, he just likes to teach you how to stab people to death or beat their brains out with a tire iron. You'd like his course!"(Always great to have friends give this kinda PR "help")
Then the fighter asked if I taught how to "defend" against knives and guns. My friend once again "answered" for me saying "Oh yeah and more than one attacker, I mean, its prison riot training" (Again very "helpful"; I'm sure the translator loved me!) Then the fighter told of his cousin being assaulted and stabbed by 2 men in his home country. He said he felt bad because he truly couldn't give his cousin (who survived the attack) any "tips" on how to "fight" people with knives.
He then said: "Quite frankly for all my skills in the ring I doubt I could have done much better. I know how to kick someone's ass on the mat but on the street it's so different."He then had to leave and get ready for his match (which he easily won that night, absolutely wrecking his opponent). We exchanged info and he got the dates when I'd be in Europe this year.
This meeting got me thinking about the difference between a fighter and a killer: The fighter competes to better an opponent; the killer is solely focused on ending the other person. The fighter seeks to score points or get someone to submit; the killer seeks to shut down the other's brain. The fighter is good at kicking someone's ass; the killer knows how to irreparably injure vulnerable areas of the human body, permanently wrecking the function of that area.
The fighter relies on superior strength, speed and skill; the killer uses stealth and violence of action to get his results.The fighter's skills deteriorate after his competitive years are over; the killer's skills can last a lifetime.The fighter's skills work best in the controlled environment of the ring; the killer's skills work in any act of violence.
I could go on but you get the point. Now some of you may be pursuing competitive MMA careers and I wish you the best. After you hang up your gi or MMA trunks you may find the skills of a killer more useful.For the rest of you please ask yourself where do you see yourself applying your martial arts or combat sport training?
If it is in the chaotic world of real violence then you are hamstringing yourself with rules and skills that are only good for the young, fast, and strong. Not to mention whether or no the other guy plays by your rules; most murderers tend not to abide by any competition standards.
At least explore the world of the killer and see how despite the name, the skills are easily learned and last a lifetime. Also the byproduct of learning these skills is you get to live a far more relaxed and peaceful life. Strange but true. Remember there is a big difference between being a killer and a murderer. And if you face a murderer; then only the skills of a killer will properly prepare you for that situation.
At one of the events I was introduced by an MMA friend of mine to one of the top competitors and this fighter asked through his translator if I was a MMA competitor. Before I could answer, my friend (who had a couple of beers in him since he was not on this fight card) smiled and said, "Nah, this guy's a killer, he just likes to teach you how to stab people to death or beat their brains out with a tire iron. You'd like his course!"(Always great to have friends give this kinda PR "help")
Then the fighter asked if I taught how to "defend" against knives and guns. My friend once again "answered" for me saying "Oh yeah and more than one attacker, I mean, its prison riot training" (Again very "helpful"; I'm sure the translator loved me!) Then the fighter told of his cousin being assaulted and stabbed by 2 men in his home country. He said he felt bad because he truly couldn't give his cousin (who survived the attack) any "tips" on how to "fight" people with knives.
He then said: "Quite frankly for all my skills in the ring I doubt I could have done much better. I know how to kick someone's ass on the mat but on the street it's so different."He then had to leave and get ready for his match (which he easily won that night, absolutely wrecking his opponent). We exchanged info and he got the dates when I'd be in Europe this year.
This meeting got me thinking about the difference between a fighter and a killer: The fighter competes to better an opponent; the killer is solely focused on ending the other person. The fighter seeks to score points or get someone to submit; the killer seeks to shut down the other's brain. The fighter is good at kicking someone's ass; the killer knows how to irreparably injure vulnerable areas of the human body, permanently wrecking the function of that area.
The fighter relies on superior strength, speed and skill; the killer uses stealth and violence of action to get his results.The fighter's skills deteriorate after his competitive years are over; the killer's skills can last a lifetime.The fighter's skills work best in the controlled environment of the ring; the killer's skills work in any act of violence.
I could go on but you get the point. Now some of you may be pursuing competitive MMA careers and I wish you the best. After you hang up your gi or MMA trunks you may find the skills of a killer more useful.For the rest of you please ask yourself where do you see yourself applying your martial arts or combat sport training?
If it is in the chaotic world of real violence then you are hamstringing yourself with rules and skills that are only good for the young, fast, and strong. Not to mention whether or no the other guy plays by your rules; most murderers tend not to abide by any competition standards.
At least explore the world of the killer and see how despite the name, the skills are easily learned and last a lifetime. Also the byproduct of learning these skills is you get to live a far more relaxed and peaceful life. Strange but true. Remember there is a big difference between being a killer and a murderer. And if you face a murderer; then only the skills of a killer will properly prepare you for that situation.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Martial Arts: Physical Techniques And Mental Discipline
Martial Arts is the combination of physical techniques and mental discipline. It is used for self defense, body strengthening, relaxation, and even competition. Women often take martial arts classes to learn moves that will help them in the event of an attack. The moves of Martial Arts are designed for even a small woman to use them effectively.
The arms and legs are used in Martial sports moves. Practicing them will help you get fit and strengthen your body. Doing these moves will also help relax your mind. There are many different types of martial arts including karate and tae kwon do. Karate involves various kicks and punches. The goal of karate is to defend rather than to hurt the other person. Tae kwon do is the most commonly used type of martial art. The moves are very graceful and requires exceptional coordination.
The level of skill varies greatly in martial arts, from beginners to experts. Competitions are very popular. In addition to karate and tae kwon do, kickboxing competitions are very popular as well.
Martial arts is a great sport for children of all ages to participate in. They will get fit, learn about self discipline, and have some basic skills for defending themselves. It can help with behavior issues too including a short attention span, following directions, and communication style.
There are many variations of the martial arts. It is important to identify the types of techniques and trainings that will be used in a class before you sign up. The instructor can help you determine if it is right for you. There are also martial arts videos you can purchase to use at home. This is a great way to pick up skills in the privacy of your home. It is also great for those with a hectic schedule.
Many types of Martial Arts have a colored belt system. Judo was the first type of Martial Arts to adopt this practice. The color of the belt indicates the level of skill the student has. Students have to pass skill tests to move on to learning techniques and moves of the next color. Beginners start with a white belt. In the old days, the white belt was dyed the new color as a rite of passage and honor in Martial Arts. Today the belt is simply replaced with the new color of the skill level. After white, the colors are yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and black.
While the goal of each student in Martial Arts is self improvement, the belt in some forms of it offers the student a way to display their efforts to the other students. It is also designed to help students engage in fair sparing activities. To respect the culture of Martial Arts, it is important that you wear the belt properly.
Never let a white belt get dingy or dirty. The belt needs to be tied firmly above the hip bones. Make sure it is loose enough to move during your activities but tight enough to stay in place. The ends of the belt hanging on both sides need to be even. This can take time to learn so practice finding the amount of material needed to tie it. Some people place a small market on the inside of the belt to find the location easily. The belt should never be allowed to cross itself in the back. Never let your belt touch the floor.
Having the proper respect for the Martial Arts includes honoring the belt color system. Never wear a belt for a level of skill you have not accomplished. This is considered to be dishonorable. Your instructor will help you learn to tie your belts properly. Enjoy learning about Martial Arts, improving your skills, and proving you are worthy of a higher ranking belt.
The arms and legs are used in Martial sports moves. Practicing them will help you get fit and strengthen your body. Doing these moves will also help relax your mind. There are many different types of martial arts including karate and tae kwon do. Karate involves various kicks and punches. The goal of karate is to defend rather than to hurt the other person. Tae kwon do is the most commonly used type of martial art. The moves are very graceful and requires exceptional coordination.
The level of skill varies greatly in martial arts, from beginners to experts. Competitions are very popular. In addition to karate and tae kwon do, kickboxing competitions are very popular as well.
Martial arts is a great sport for children of all ages to participate in. They will get fit, learn about self discipline, and have some basic skills for defending themselves. It can help with behavior issues too including a short attention span, following directions, and communication style.
There are many variations of the martial arts. It is important to identify the types of techniques and trainings that will be used in a class before you sign up. The instructor can help you determine if it is right for you. There are also martial arts videos you can purchase to use at home. This is a great way to pick up skills in the privacy of your home. It is also great for those with a hectic schedule.
Many types of Martial Arts have a colored belt system. Judo was the first type of Martial Arts to adopt this practice. The color of the belt indicates the level of skill the student has. Students have to pass skill tests to move on to learning techniques and moves of the next color. Beginners start with a white belt. In the old days, the white belt was dyed the new color as a rite of passage and honor in Martial Arts. Today the belt is simply replaced with the new color of the skill level. After white, the colors are yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and black.
While the goal of each student in Martial Arts is self improvement, the belt in some forms of it offers the student a way to display their efforts to the other students. It is also designed to help students engage in fair sparing activities. To respect the culture of Martial Arts, it is important that you wear the belt properly.
Never let a white belt get dingy or dirty. The belt needs to be tied firmly above the hip bones. Make sure it is loose enough to move during your activities but tight enough to stay in place. The ends of the belt hanging on both sides need to be even. This can take time to learn so practice finding the amount of material needed to tie it. Some people place a small market on the inside of the belt to find the location easily. The belt should never be allowed to cross itself in the back. Never let your belt touch the floor.
Having the proper respect for the Martial Arts includes honoring the belt color system. Never wear a belt for a level of skill you have not accomplished. This is considered to be dishonorable. Your instructor will help you learn to tie your belts properly. Enjoy learning about Martial Arts, improving your skills, and proving you are worthy of a higher ranking belt.
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