Winning UFC Bets by Understanding Prelims vs Main Card

If you’re new to UFC betting or just looking for ways to improve, there’s a simple but often overlooked trick: learn the difference between prelims vs main card fights. A lot of people stick to the big names on the main card, but you can find good value in the prelims if you know what to look for.

Quick UFC Betting Facts That Might Surprise You

• Underdogs win about 33.7% of UFC fights: backing the underdog might be riskier, but the reward can be higher. (source)
• Odds can swing before fight night: at UFC 315, Jeong Yeong Lee went from a +116 underdog to a -124 favourite before the first punch was thrown. (source)
• Prelims usually include newer fighters: often with fewer than 10 pro fights under their belt, which makes it harder to predict how they’ll perform.
• A lot of prelim fights go to a decision: meaning neither fighter gets a finish, so think about that when betting on how a fight ends. (source)
• Main card fights attract the most bets: so odds tend to be tighter and less generous.
• Big betting line moves usually mean something: they show where the money is going and how the public feels.

What’s the Difference Between Prelims and the Main Card?

UFC events are split into sections:

• Prelims are earlier in the night and often have lesser-known or up-and-coming fighters. The fights can still be exciting and competitive.
• Main card fights happen later and are the ones most people are watching. These are the pay-per-view or headline fights with the biggest names.

Knowing which part of the card a fight is on can help you understand how reliable the odds might be and how much info is out there.

Betting on Prelim Fights

Prelims can offer good opportunities because not as many people bet on them. That means the odds might not be as sharp.

But there are some challenges:

• Less info on the fighters: especially if it’s someone’s UFC debut.
• Bigger swings in performance: newer fighters can be unpredictable
• Many prelim fights go to decision: which might affect your bet type.

If you take the time to look up fighter records, styles, and even watch weigh-ins or interviews, you might spot a smart bet others miss.

Betting on the Main Card

These are the fights that get all the media attention. That’s good because:

• There’s more info to research.
• You’ll hear from analysts and fighters throughout the week.

But there are downsides:

• Odds are tighter since more money is involved.
• Well-known fighters might be overrated in the betting markets.

Make sure you’re betting based on facts, not just hype or fan support.

Should You Bet on Prelims or Main Card Fights?

Honestly, it depends on how you like to bet.

• Prelims have more hidden value, but also more risk.
• Main card fights are easier to research, but the odds might be less rewarding.

A good approach could be a mix of both. Don’t just stick to the fights with hype. Spread your bets around if you can.

Simple Tips for Smarter UFC Betting

• Do a little research: just checking fighter records and recent results can go a long way.
• Pay attention to odds changes: if they move fast, there might be news or insider info.
• Don’t bet based on the name: big-name fighters lose all the time.
• Stick to your budget: always bet with an amount you’re okay losing.

Try different types of bets, like methods of victory or total rounds.

Prelims might not have the star power, but they could give you better chances to win if you do your homework. Main card fights are fun and easier to research, but you’ve got to watch out for inflated odds.

The best bettors don’t just follow the crowd, they look for value in places others ignore. Whether that’s on the prelims or the main event, understanding the difference helps you make smarter bets.

Always bet responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. If you think you’re ready, head over to Tangobet to place your bets. For further reading, check out our MMA Betting Tips & News page.