Gambler's Paradise: A Look at Betting Odds For Upcoming UFC Fights

Michael ComeauOct 15, 2008

I just took a look at the UFC/MMA betting lines over at BetUS. They are pretty much what I expected, but I do see potential value for gamblin' types in two fights. But first, here's a quick list of the current odds:

UFC 89
Chris Leben +175
Michael Bisping -220

Keith Jardine +145
Brandon Vera -185

UFC 90
Anderson Silva -800
Patrick Cote +550

UFC 91
Joe Stevenson   +135
Kenny Florian   -175

Brock Lesnar    -130
Randy Couture   -110

UFC 92
Frank Mir      +225
A. Nogueira     -350

Quinton Jackson -120
Wanderlei Silva -120

Rashad Evans      +120
Forrest Griffin      -160

UFC 93
Rich Franklin      -105
Dan Henderson      -135

Overall, there aren't many surprises here, but I do see some value in a couple of fights. First, I think MMA Fans may be underestimating Joe Stevenson's chances against Kenny Florian next month at UFC 91. Kenny is probably a better fighter from a technical standpoint, especially when it comes to striking, but Joe has a great ground game and can deliver a furious pace.

And while it's hard to argue with success, I wasn't terribly impressed with Kenny's last two victories. The fight with Joe Lauzon would have been pretty close had Lauzon not gassed, and Roger Huerta was clearly overhyped by the UFC's marketing machine ahead of their fight.

Secondly, I think Rashad Evans has a decent chance of beating Forrest Griffin. Forrest definitely has the edge in the heart and determination department, but Rashad definitely has the goods to win. He's a good wrestler with excellent speed, and he does have some power on the feet as evidenced by his brutal knockout of Chuck Liddell at UFC 88. Rashad also has Greg Jackson, one of the sport's best game planners, in his corner. (nothing against Xtreme Couture!)

I'm not placing any bets myself at this point, but these are the two picks where I see some value at this early stage.