Mixed martial arts (MMA) is often referred to as the ultimate test of athleticism, and in UFC betting, understanding the different fighting styles is key to making informed predictions. One of the most popular phrases in the MMA world is “styles make fights,” and it’s a sentiment that holds true when it comes to wagering on the UFC. Knowing how a fighter’s style stacks up against their opponent’s can make all the difference in making the right picks.

While MMA fighters are generally known for being well-rounded athletes, many still have a preferred fighting style that they excel in, whether it be striking, wrestling, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). These individual preferences can heavily influence the outcome of a fight. In the early days of MMA, you saw more one-dimensional fighters, and matchups like “BJJ vs. Boxing” or “Brawler vs. Wrestler” were the norm. In modern MMA, however, most fighters have become more versatile. Despite this, fighters usually have a dominant style or area of focus where they shine the most. Here’s a closer look at how certain style matchups can be key to your betting strategy.

1. Knockout Artist vs. Fighter with a Weak Chin

One of the most consistent trends in MMA is that a fighter’s ability to take a punch is crucial to their career longevity. When a fighter starts to lose their “chin” — meaning the ability to absorb strikes without being knocked out — it usually signals the end of their ability to compete at a high level. This is often true for fighters who have accumulated multiple knockout defeats over time, which shows their inability to withstand strikes.

A prime example of this is Chris Weidman, a former UFC Middleweight Champion. Weidman entered his title defense against Luke Rockhold undefeated, but after being knocked out in that fight,

his career never recovered. In the seven fights following his loss to Rockhold, Weidman suffered five knockout losses. Fighters like Weidman, who’ve shown signs of weakening in their ability to take punches, often find themselves on the losing end when matched up with a knockout artist.

When betting on MMA, if you spot a fighter who has been knocked out repeatedly in recent bouts, and they’re facing a fighter known for their knockout power, it’s smart to consider betting against the fighter with a questionable chin. Even better, prop bets on the knockout finish can increase the payout, as these types of matchups often end by knockout.

2. Wrestler vs. Kickboxer

Wrestling is one of the most important skills to have in MMA, as it allows a fighter to control where the fight takes place. Wrestlers can often dictate the pace by taking the fight to the ground, where they are more comfortable, while striking specialists are forced to fight in an area that may not be as favorable for them. The key to betting on this type of matchup lies in assessing how well a fighter defends against takedowns.

One of the most advantageous matchups in MMA occurs when a strong wrestler faces a fighter with poor takedown defense. The wrestler can exploit the opponent’s weaknesses by taking the fight to the ground, where they can control the action. This is especially true when facing kickboxers who rely heavily on kicks, as they are more susceptible to takedowns when they throw those strikes. Wrestlers can attack the legs of a kickboxer, closing the distance and taking them down to neutralize their striking advantage.

When reviewing upcoming UFC matchups, one way to make an informed bet is to look at the takedown statistics of each fighter. If one fighter has a strong takedown game and their opponent has poor takedown defense, this could be a clear indication that the wrestler has the upper hand.

3. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Specialist vs. Fighter with a History of Tapping Out

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an essential skill in MMA, especially for those who prefer to take the fight to the ground. If you’re betting on UFC fights, one of the easiest style matchups to analyze is when a BJJ specialist faces a fighter who has a history of tapping out to submissions. This is a clear opportunity to bet on the submission artist.

Fighters who have a history of tapping out to submissions often struggle against opponents who are skilled in BJJ. A BJJ expert can manipulate the fight on the ground, taking advantage of the opponent’s weaknesses. For example, if a BJJ wizard faces a fighter who has lost several times by submission, betting on the submission finish becomes a logical and profitable choice.

To take advantage of this, look for props in the betting market that focus on the fight ending via submission. These types of matchups frequently lead to submissions, and betting on such outcomes can yield higher returns.

4. Veteran Fighter vs. Younger Opponent

Age is a significant factor in UFC betting. While MMA is a sport that rewards skill and experience, younger fighters tend to have the edge when facing older opponents. This is because younger fighters often have better endurance, recovery, and overall athleticism — all important factors in MMA. While not strictly a “style” issue, age can still have a huge impact on a fighter’s performance.

Recent statistics have shown that in 2020, fighters under 30 won their matches 59% of the time, and this trend has become even more pronounced, with the number now sitting at 62%. This highlights the advantage younger fighters have, particularly in high-intensity bouts. When there is a noticeable age gap between fighters, it’s often a smart move to place your bet on the younger fighter.

Though experience is crucial in MMA, the physical demands of the sport tend to favor the younger generation, which can give them an edge over older, more seasoned fighters.

In Conclusion

When betting on UFC fights, understanding the various fighting styles and how they interact is critical to making informed decisions. Each fighter brings their own set of strengths and weaknesses, and these factors can significantly impact the outcome of a fight. Whether it’s betting on a knockout artist facing a fighter with a weak chin, a wrestler against a kickboxer, or a BJJ specialist taking on a fighter who taps out easily, being able to recognize these style matchups is a valuable tool for any UFC bettor.

By conducting thorough research and analyzing the fighters’ strengths and weaknesses, you can take advantage of these style-based trends to make smarter bets. Betting on UFC fights requires more than just picking winners; it’s about understanding the nuances of how fighters’ styles clash inside the octagon and how that impacts their chances of victory.