It is quite clear that bets on mixed martial arts fights are very popular in the US. Many UFC fights draw quite a little attention when lengthy-awaited matchups show up or when pinnacle combatants contest in opposition. In Europe, betting on MMA hasn’t reached the same level as within the US. However, there is a clear upward trend that shows the range of bets in this recreation is developing.
Although it is growing, many factors still slow down its improvement. One such factor is that many bettors don’t fully understand the details of MMA betting. So, in case you need to learn more about MMA betting in Europe, read the full guide.
How Popular is MMA Betting at European Bookmakers?
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fights had tens of millions of fans in the US. However, they were not very famous in Europe. This has changed in recent years, especially because Europe has some MMA fighters who have performed exceptionally in competitions and gotten a whole lot of interest and assistance from fans of the game.
This fact is also evident in the rise of other events besides the UFC. As you already know, the majority of mixed martial arts bets are placed on UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) events. However, tournaments such as Fight Nights Global (FNG), Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA), and Federazione Puglistica Italiana are high-quality events that feature in Europe.
These events have little exposure compared to the UFC in terms of followers, fans, spectators, watchers, and, of course, bets. They still thrive among sports fans and with the ongoing trend, we may see the rise of several platforms ready to sponsor MMA events in Europe. As these event grows, it will lead to steady increase in MMA betting for European bookmakers.
How Top European Bookmakers Are Attracting MMA Enthusiasts
European bookmakers are known for providing odds for top UFC events like the UFC fight night. For instance, UFC 303 odds are already available at several top European bookmakers.
A major factor that attracts punters to European gaming sites is the amazing bonuses available on their platforms. For instance, all new players are eligible for a no deposit 25 EUR reward at bonusy Ice casino. There are more mouthwatering bonuses available on their site. Most of these bonuses have lax requirements, like a simple 5x rollover restriction. They also offer Big Bass Bonanza bonuses for users when they make a deposit.
The European betting market has been constantly growing. It is expected to increase at a steady rate of approximately 10% until 2025. MMA betting sites offer several markets for different types of bets, including;
- Moneyline
- Methods of Victory
- Parlays
- Round betting
Top European MMA Making Waves in the Betting Market
European MMA organizations have for years proved fertile breeding grounds for several of MMA’s largest stars. The likes of Michael Bisping, Conor McGregor, and Jan Blachowicz cut their enamel inside the pinnacle organizations before gaining mainstream achievement. And now, greater than ever, we’re seeing more and more European combatants funnel through these organizations into the UFC, Bellator and the PFL. Some of these organizations include:
- Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki (KSW)
- Cage Warriors
- M-1 Global
- Absolute Championship, Akhmat
The KSW is a particularly intriguing event that has experienced steady growth over the years. It conducted its inaugural event in 2004, in a sports bar within the Warsaw Marriott Hotel, in front of only 300 people. Fast forward to 2017, and the organization shattered the previous record for the highest live audience at a European MMA event, becoming the second largest in history, with over 57,000 people attending KSW 39 in Warsaw. KSW has now hosted more than 70 events across Poland, the United Kingdom, and even the United States.
Conclusion
Overall, MMA betting can be a lot of fun, and as you learn more and gain skills, it can also be a lot of money. With the rise of European bookmakers offering the best odds on several MMA events, you can easily start your journey.
The article was created in collaboration with analysts of the Ice Casino portal.