In Michigan, the gaming market is flourishing, as both online and retail sports betting are now active statewide. Detroit boasts three casinos with retail sportsbooks, and numerous tribal casinos in Michigan have also joined the trend. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) authorized the state’s inaugural online sportsbooks to commence accepting wagers in January 2021.

DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM are among the top UFC betting apps in Michigan.

Here’s why:

DraftKings Sportsbook provides an extensive selection of UFC betting opportunities. They offer a wide variety of options, ranging from moneylines to total rounds and bets on the method of victory. Additionally, they provide live UFC betting, UFC parlays, futures, props, and monthly pools for your betting pleasure.
FanDuel Sports Betting presents a range of UFC fight betting options, featuring moneylines for each bout. Furthermore, it organizes exciting promotions centered around the biggest UFC events scheduled throughout the year.
At BetMGM Sports, you have the opportunity to place various UFC bets, giving you the flexibility to wager on multiple aspects such as the fight winner, winning round, total rounds, and type of victory. Additionally, our mobile app allows you to engage in live UFC betting.

How UFC betting odds work

UFC betting can be described as a relatively simple process. Primarily, you place bets on the fighter you believe will emerge victorious, the method of victory, or the duration of the fight. However, there are also additional betting options and various propositions available during the fight.

Michigan sportsbooks offer a glimpse into the fundamental UFC betting lines.

The Moneyline option allows you to select a fighter and place a bet based on the current odds. The odds are represented by either a negative or positive number next to the fighter’s name. A negative number indicates the favorite and shows the amount you need to bet in order to win $100. On the other hand, a positive number represents the underdog and indicates how much you can win for every $100 bet.

In the summer of 2021, Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier faced each other for the third time in a highly anticipated UFC fight. The match garnered significant attention and excitement, becoming one of the most talked-about events in recent memory. According to most sportsbooks, the odds for the fight were as follows:

Dustin Poirier is favored at -130, while Conor McGregor is the underdog at +110.

To clarify, if you had placed a bet on Poirier, you would have needed to wager $130 to potentially win $100 along with your initial bet. On the other hand, if you had bet $100 on McGregor and he emerged as the winner, you would have received $110 in addition to your initial bet. Ultimately, Poirier emerged as the victor in the match.

The objective is to predict if the total number of rounds in a fight will exceed or fall below a line established by oddsmakers.

The winning strategy involves placing bets on the outcome of a fight, specifically whether it will conclude with a knockout, submission, or a decision from the judges, regardless of the eventual winner.

Parlays involve combining two or more basic UFC bets into a single wager. They offer higher payouts compared to individual bets, but you must win each component of the bet in order to receive any winnings.

UFC live betting, props and futures

One can place UFC futures bets on the possibility of a fighter securing a championship title.
UFC props encompass a range of bets that can be placed on pay-per-view events or individual fights.
You can engage in in-fight betting where you place bets on fundamental outcomes that can alter as the fight progresses. Additionally, certain mobile betting apps offer advanced live betting choices, such as predicting knockdowns, submissions, takedown attempts, and successful takedowns. These real-time bets are specifically designed for convenient use on mobile platforms.

Michigan betting sites vs. offshore sites

Since betting on the UFC is now legal in Michigan, there is absolutely no valid justification for resorting to offshore and illegal sportsbooks for your UFC wagers.

Michigan sportsbooks that utilize official UFC data can provide an extensive range of betting options, enhanced customer service, and most importantly, ensure the security of your funds. With state regulations in place, you can rest assured knowing that in the event of any issues, there is a reliable avenue for assistance.

Now is the opportune moment to make a switch if you have been engaging in UFC betting through offshore and illicit sportsbooks. Legal Michigan sportsbooks present a safer, more secure, and reliable alternative.

UFC betting tips

To employ effective UFC betting strategies, it is crucial to invest time and effort. If you have a keen interest in the sport, dedicate yourself to watching a substantial number of fights to enhance your knowledge about various styles and strategies. Additionally, make it a point to gather extensive information about fighters to make well-informed betting decisions.

Additionally, these fundamental UFC betting tips can be of assistance.

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the fighters: Thoroughly analyze the individuals participating in a fight and assess how their fighting styles and past outcomes align with each other. Examine the specific fighting techniques they utilize and determine which strategies prove most effective against their opponents.
Total rounds betting allows you to determine whether a fighter is more focused on defensive tactics or aiming for quick knockouts or submissions. If a fighter leans towards a defensive style, they are more likely to go the distance in their matches. On the other hand, aggressive fighters tend to finish their fights early. By considering this information, especially when using a teaser bet, you can customize your total rounds bets accordingly.
The saying “history repeats itself” holds true in the world of fights. By looking at the past performances of the fighters involved, one can often predict the outcome of a fight. If two fighters have a track record of going the distance, it’s likely that their match will end with a judge’s decision. On the other hand, if two brawlers have a history of knockouts, it’s unlikely that their fight will go the full distance. With this strategy, you can create successful bets based on the expected outcome of the fight. It’s important not to overanalyze the situation and simply trust this straightforward approach.
The key to success lies in discipline: UFC fighters typically excel in one or two specific fighting disciplines or styles. By acquainting yourself with various fighting disciplines, you can effectively predict winners based on the individual matchups of those styles.

What are the best sportsbooks for UFC in Michigan?

Finding the latest odds and lines in Michigan while catching a live UFC fight night can make for an even more enjoyable experience. Check out these top spots to witness the action and place bets.

MGM Grand Detroit / BetMGM Sports Lounge

Name: BetMGM Sports Lounge
1777 3rd Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226
Phone: (877) 888-2121
The sportsbook is open from 9 a.m to 11 p.m, seven days a week.
The lounge is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every day of the week.
Online sportsbook: BetMGM Michigan

One of the pioneers in Michigan, the BetMGM Sports Lounge emerged as an early player in the retail sportsbook scene. Patrons can conveniently place their bets at any of the six betting windows or utilize the numerous self-serve kiosks peppered throughout the casino. The lounge boasts an impressive array of features, including 60 high-definition televisions and a fully stocked bar.

MotorCity Casino Hotel / FanDuel Sportsbook

Name: FanDuel Sportsbook
2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201
Phone: (866) 782-9622
The sportsbook is open every day from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Online sportsbook: FanDuel Michigan

It’s easy to understand why FanDuel Sportsbook has gained popularity in the Detroit region. With 67 high-definition TVs available, a dedicated sports ticker, and six betting windows (or over 50 self-serve kiosks), it offers an excellent experience for sports enthusiasts looking to place their bets.

Little River Casino Resort / River Rock Sportsbook & Grill

River Rock Sportsbook & Grill is the name.
2700 Orchard Highway, Manistee, Michigan 49660
Phone: (231) 398-3976
The operating hours for the sportsbook are as follows: Monday through Thursday, from 2 p.m. until midnight; and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 10 a.m. until midnight.
The bar is open every day from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Online sportsbook: BetRivers Michigan

At River Rock, patrons can find both betting windows and a dozen 24-hour terminals conveniently located within the restaurant. With its fantastic sports bar atmosphere and an extensive menu, visitors can relish in both great food and the thrilling live action.

In addition to that, if you’re looking for alternative venues to enjoy the UFC matches and place bets, there are a few notable options. One such place worth exploring is the Onyx Sportsbook located at Caesars Turtle Creek Casino in Williamsburg.

How to watch UFC events in Michigan

Typically, UFC pay-per-view events can be accessed nationwide. The early prelims can be watched on UFC Fight Pass, ESPN, and ESPN+. Meanwhile, the prelims are aired on ESPN and ESPN+, and the main cards exclusively on ESPN+.

The majority of UFC Fight Night events are typically aired on both ESPN and the ESPN+ streaming platform.

Looking back: Big fights, best knockouts in recent UFC history

The women’s UFC divisions have made significant progress in a short span of time, as demonstrated by the highly anticipated matchup between Holly Holm and Ronda Rousey at UFC 193 on November 14, 2015. The first-ever female UFC fight took place in 2012, and just three years later, Rousey showcased the ability of female fighters to attract large audiences. The event, held in Melbourne, Australia, set a then-live attendance record with over 56,000 fans in attendance. Despite Rousey being heavily favored (-900) over Holm (+600), Holm shocked the world by delivering a powerful kick to the side of Rousey’s neck, resulting in a knockout and marking Rousey’s first defeat in the UFC.

The highly anticipated match between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor took place on October 6, 2018 at UFC 229. Nurmagomedov, the undefeated UFC Lightweight champion, faced off against McGregor, a beloved former featherweight and lightweight champion. UFC fans demonstrated their immense support by setting a new record of 2.4 million pay-per-view buys for this main event. McGregor, who had previously engaged in a boxing match with Floyd Mayweather Jr., was considered the underdog (+140) compared to Nurmagomedov (-170). However, the match concluded with Nurmagomedov submitting McGregor in the fourth round. Following the fight, a brawl erupted among the entourage members, which only served to further endear McGregor to his devoted fan base.

On August 20, 2016, Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor faced off for the second time at UFC 202. This highly anticipated rematch is regarded as one of the top 25 fights in UFC history. Notably, it broke the record for the highest number of pay-per-view purchases, reaching 1.65 million. In their initial encounter, Diaz emerged victorious by submitting McGregor in the second round. However, for the rematch, McGregor was favored with a moneyline of -130, while Diaz stood at +100. The fight went the full distance, resulting in McGregor’s triumph through a decision. This epic battle has now become a timeless classic in the world of UFC.

On December 12, 2015, Conor McGregor faced off against José Aldo in an epic showdown at UFC 194. This particular fight would become legendary, as it witnessed McGregor’s lightning-fast knockout. In a mere 13 seconds, McGregor successfully connected a devastating left hook to Aldo’s chin, causing him to collapse onto the canvas. McGregor, not content with just one blow, swiftly followed up with two more strikes against a defenseless Aldo before the referee intervened and halted the fight. This incredible feat not only marked the fastest finish in UFC title fight history but also catapulted McGregor into the realms of superstardom, solidifying his status as the ultimate UFC sensation.

On July 6, 2013, a highly anticipated match took place between Chris Weidman and Anderson Silva at UFC 162. Silva, already a renowned figure in the sport and the reigning UFC Middleweight Champion, was expected to easily defeat Weidman. However, Weidman surprised everyone by starting the fight with great intensity and ultimately securing a knockout in the second round. Silva’s overconfidence and taunting of Weidman backfired as a powerful left hook from Weidman put an end to Silva’s impressive seven-year winning streak. In their subsequent rematch, Weidman went on to further prove his dominance by breaking Silva’s leg in two places, solidifying his victory.

UFC history

Originally, the UFC emerged as an experimental event, aiming to determine the most effective fighting discipline. Occurring on November 12, 1993, in Denver, Colorado, it consisted of an eight-fighter, single-elimination tournament.

In the octagon-shaped cage, skilled practitioners of diverse martial arts faced each other, and it was the esteemed Brazilian jiu-jitsu expert Royce Gracie who emerged victorious, defeating three opponents to claim the victory.

Afterwards, the UFC persisted in adopting this structure, devoid of weight classes, time restrictions, and minimal regulations. However, in 2000, a significant transformation took place. Weight categories, defined rounds, and protective gloves were introduced. The employment of judges became customary, and a standardized set of MMA rules was devised and enforced.

The UFC evolved beyond boxing, with its fights gradually resembling sanctioned matches rather than the chaotic free-for-alls they used to be. However, the iconic octagon-shaped cage has remained unchanged.

The UFC, purchased for a mere $2 million in 2001 by Station Casinos executives and brothers Frank Fertitta III and Lorenzo Fertitta, gained immense momentum under the guidance of fight manager Dana White, who was appointed as president. White’s strategic efforts played a pivotal role in propelling the UFC to become the swiftest-growing sport in America within a span of 15 years.

In 2016, the UFC’s immense growth was solidified by its acquisition for $4.025 billion by a group spearheaded by Endeavor (previously known as William Morris Endeavor Entertainment). This purchase marked a stunning transformation for the UFC, propelling it from a questionably lawful fighting competition to becoming one of the most beloved sports in America.

The UFC’s growth and popularity have been fueled by its superstar fighters, resulting in the organization hosting events worldwide. In fact, the UFC’s pay-per-view numbers surpass those of most boxing matches. With the increasing acceptance of legal sports betting in various states, the popularity of wagering on the UFC has also grown and shows no signs of slowing down.

UFC FAQ

Who owns the UFC?

Endeavor, previously known as William Morris Endeavor Entertainment or WME-IMG, acquired the UFC from Frank Fertitta III and Lorenzo Fertitta for a whopping $4.025 billion in July 2016.

Based in Beverly Hills, California, Endeavor is a renowned talent and media agency.

Can you bet on UFC on DraftKings Sportsbook?

In Michigan, DraftKings Sportsbook provides an extensive selection of UFC betting options, offering the broadest range compared to other platforms. From moneylines, total rounds, and winning method bets to parlays, futures, props, and in-fight betting, DraftKings has you covered for all your UFC wagering needs.

How much money do UFC fighters make?

If UFC fighters emerge victorious, they have the potential to earn double the amount they make for a fight, which can range from a few hundred thousand dollars.

Naturally, UFC celebrities such as Conor McGregor attract large audiences and generate substantial pay-per-view revenues, resulting in even higher earnings. McGregor pocketed $3 million from UFC 202 and another $3 million from UFC 246.

Can I bet on other MMA events in Michigan ?

In addition to being the prominent realm of MMA fighting, the UFC acts as the major leagues in this domain. Nonetheless, numerous professional MMA events take place nationwide, and in Michigan, you have the opportunity to place bets on them. Consequently, Michigan sportsbooks will display odds for an array of events beyond the UFC, encompassing Bellator fights and other commendable competitions organized by reputable fight companies.