When thinking about gambling and combat sports, there may not be too many initial comparisons that immediately jump out. Indeed, it’s hard to think about them other than as two different, separate entities.
Gambling will often be considered a game of chance. Individuals can play slots or table games at a physical or online casino that provides authentic experiences and bonuses, or they can engage in sports betting. The latter is perhaps where the link will immediately be formed, especially as combat sports like boxing, mixed martial arts, and wrestling can be about skill and toughness.
However, when dissecting the two industries, more similarities present themselves, highlighting just how there are several surprising parallels between the pair. High stakes and heavy hits both share many dynamics that make them extremely popular with fans worldwide.
What comparisons can be made between combat sports and gambling?
An immediate comparison that can be made between gambling and combat sports is the unpredictable nature of both. As highlighted, gambling is about chance. While combat sports can involve a lot more preparation by participants, an element of luck can also be required when trying to obtain a positive outcome.
Using strategies to maximize win potential
Strategies can be put in place to try and maximize the win rewards of both, however they can’t be guaranteed. In gambling, a bettor may look at implementing a strategy that involves minimising the chance of a loss occurring. They may consider placing smaller or fewer bets, wagering on things they know or have more control over. For a combat athlete, they’ll have a game plan that they’ll want to follow before heading into a contest. Still, there’s nothing to suggest that it will produce the desired outcome. They may have the best preparation and training camp, but come the day of the event, anything can happen.
Both have risk-reward factors
The risk-reward dynamics of both can be considered to be very similar, making them a surprising parallel between the two activities. Related to the unpredictability spoken of, participants have no idea of what will happen when engaging in both. However, they’ll know that there is a potentially handsome reward if they are successful.
For gamblers, they may be able to obtain a large windfall depending on the game played with little risk. An example could be when an individual plays a slot game, wagers the minimum amount and triggers a win that is a significant multiple of the bet. For fighters, it can be the same type of reward. The biggest fights could see them win large prize purses if they are successful. Of course, they will have to put a whole lot more on the line, with many of these posing a risk to their potential futures. For example, a big fight could have an impact on their reputation in the sport. If they were to lose, it could be devastating for their careers. But, if they are victorious, it could elevate them to a new level of stardom. Without taking the risk, they may never be able to achieve what they’re aiming to accomplish.
Psychological aspects are similar
The psychology of both activities can be considered to be eerily similar parallels between the two. They are two activities that aren’t necessarily suited to those who are risk-averse or don’t have the stomach to encounter negative scenarios. For gamblers, they must recognize that the money they are wagering with is essentially “lost” when it is used. As highlighted, there is no guarantee that a win will happen. With money on the line, individuals need to prepare themselves and not have any expectations. The exact same can be experienced by combat athletes. While confidence can be an emotion that can help them get in the right frame of mind and help with their preparation, they need to be aware of what could happen. They need to analyze things quickly and make the correct decision, otherwise it could prove costly.
The rush that is encountered from both activities is experienced by all involved. Studies have shown that gamblers and combat athletes have both experienced rushes to their dopamine and cortisol levels ahead of their respective events, as they both go through thrilling and stressful sessions. At the same time, many live for the rush, so they keep coming back for more.
Gambling & combat sports culture mesh together
It’s possible to recognize that there are similarities between the two activities in terms of their culture. While more of a loose parallel compared to others mentioned, it’s still one that exists.
Both are activities that have been associated with locations like Las Vegas, with many combat sports being held at arenas and casinos along Sin City’s Strip. Although there have been changes in where many combat sports are now being held and where the “home” of said sports are, the “Entertainment Capital of the World” has long been associated with both, even if the world of gambling has experienced it’s own changes with the development of online platforms and casino establishments.
Final Thoughts
While there are many evident differences between the two, combat sports and gambling share many surprising parallels.
Both involve a degree of risk and unpredictability. Both require participants to be in the right frame of mind and have the right psyche. As you dig deeper and look for links between the two, they become very easy to uncover and recognize.
