The UFC gives fighters a chance to test their mettle and mental fortitude in each match. So every bout has its twists and turns. That’s what makes this sport so attractive to bettors, and it can pose a challenge to bookmakers. Given how unpredictable the matches can be coming up with accurate odds is tricky.
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In contrast, in UFC and other fighting sports, the circumstances might yet be so different. Factors include the skill difference between opponents, their past records, and their win rates which help decide the probability of each matchup. Alternatively, it can lead to big odds discrepancy. Now, let’s get into the fights that surprised the audience with the biggest odds in UFC history, and uncover the stories behind these unforgettable moments in sports history.
Examples of Fights With the Biggest Odds in UFC History
Here are some fights that had the biggest betting odds in UFC history.
Ronda Rousey vs.Holly Holm
In November 2015, Ronda Rousey was the undefeated UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion. She stepped into the octagon to defend her title against Holly Holm, a +830 underdog. In contrast, Rousey was the -1400 favorite who was known for her fearsome striking and her domination in grappling. However, Holm, a former professional boxer, had different ideas.
During the fight, Rousey's aggressive strategy was answered with calculated counterstrikes by Holm who showed great footwork and movement ability to avoid Rousey's attacks. And to round up the show, a well-timed head kick in the second round stunned the world by overthrowing the seemingly mighty champion.
Anderson Silva vs.Chris Weidman
In July 2013, UFC legend Anderson Silva was about to have a showdown with Chris Weidman. This was the middleweight title match that took place in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Back then, Silva was riding a record-breaking 17-bout winning streak. He was an unmatched striker and his unconventional style made him a crowd favorite. The bookmakers gave him a quote of -260. Weidman, although a talented middleweight skilled in wrestling, was a clear underdog with odds of +200.
The fight peaked in the second round. Silva, known for his unpredictable strikes and daredevil style, dropped his hands and challenged Weidman to hit him. Taking the chance, Weidman l left hook found Silva’s chin which sent the champion flying to greet the floor.
Weidman did not hesitate to take this chance. He went into a frenzy of ground strikes. They secured him the win by knockout and ended Silva’s reign as champion. Anderson would get his chance for revenge but suffered a leg injury in the fight which forced him to stop the match.
Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs.Rose Namajunas
In November 2017, Joanna Jedrzejczyk fought Rose Namajunas, who was a 500 + underdog in a highly anticipated rematch. Jedrzejczyk, on the other hand, was a -700 favorite thanks to her technical striking and undefeated run.
In the first round, the apex of the battle was when Namajunas landed a vicious left hook that rocked Jedrzejczyk and sent her tumbling across the octagon. Sensing her chance, Namajunas followed that up with a flurry of strikes that ended with Jedrzejczyk on the ground and gave Namajunas the knockout victory.
Factors Influencing Odds
Several factors influence the odds assigned to Ultimate Fighting Championship fights:
- Fighter Reputation: The previous performances, win records, and general impression count while setting the odds.
- Skill Disparities: Big differences in the skill level between opponents tend to be translated into the odds being wildly unbalanced.
- Recent Form: Fighters' recent performances, as well as any visible weaknesses or strengths, often become a major factor in moving the odds.
- Public Perception: The biggest betting odds in UFC history have often been influenced by public opinion and betting trends, especially for the favorite fighters.
The reason why matches are highly unpredictable is that a single mistake can be fatal. If a fighter gets hit hard they get stunned and wide open to the follow-up. When their guard is fully down the flurry of blows won’t simply end the match, it can end their career.
Conclusion
All in all, the UFC fights are a battlefield, where the best man wins; the underdog can emerge victorious, and the champion lose his crown in the blink of an eye. From Ronda Rousey’s defeat to TJ Dillashaw's bouncing back in competition with Renan Barão, these high odds are a testament that UFC is unpredictable.
