Few MMA fighters in the world demand the fan and media attention that Conor McGregor does. That’s why Illinois online sportsbooks have promos for Saturday’s main event, but good values on UFC 257 odds appear all over the card.
The lightweight bout between Michael Chandler and Dan Hooker, along with Amanda Ribas vs. Marina Rodriguez, are worth a look as well. The action on Ottman Azaitar vs. Matt Frevola may catch your eye as well.
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Breaking down the UFC 257 odds on McGregor-Poirier
While UFC 257 is the first pay-per-view in the championship for 2021, this isn’t the first time McGregor and Poirier have met up. McGregor made short work of Poirier in that first meeting, which is a lot of the reason why he’s a heavy favorite to win again Saturday.
On the two-way moneyline, McGregor sits around -310 to win straight up. The better action is in the prop bets, for which DraftKings has an enticing new-customer promotion. First-time depositors to DraftKings can get +25,700 odds on McGregor to win by knockout in the first round.
The maximum bet on that offer is $1. This promo is only good after a deposit of at least $5. It must also be your first bet with DraftKings. New customers can enjoy this promo in addition to DraftKings’ standard bonuses for first-time depositors, though.
For all other bettors, the best bet on this fight might be over on the fight duration. With that line sitting at 1.5, you’re betting on Poirier to fare better this time than he did previously. However, Poirier is 10 pounds heavier and has much more experience. Expect a more calculated and reserved approach from him this time.
You don’t have to wait for this bout to win some wagers, however. The betting action looks good throughout the night.
Other markets for UFC 257 downcard events
If you’re considering betting on Azaitar vs. Frevola, there are some things you should know.
Azaitar has only gone past the first round in three of 13 UFC appearances. Frevola, who is making his second UFC appearance, lost his debut via stoppage in the first round. Given the fact that it’s been three years since that last appearance, he’s somewhat of a wild card, but Azaitar in the first round looks good.
Moving onto Ribas-Rodriguez, it’s important to note that almost seven out of every 10 women’s straw-weight bouts end in decision. That looks like a strong possibility again in this one, as Rodriguez has yet to lose by any other method than decision and Ribas appears to be the superior talent.
For Chandler’s UFC debut, Hooker gets the favorite status simply because of his superior experience. However, Chandler has been no slouch on the Bellator circuit. If there’s going to be an upset on the night, the best chance is here.
If Chandler can get Hooker on the mat and maintain that leverage for most of the fight, he stands a good chance to get a decision. In Hooker’s only loss, Edson Barboza battered Hooker with body kick after body kick.
No matter who wins all the bouts on the cards, UFC 257 should be a good way to start 2021 for MMA fans. If McGregor is able to put away Poirier convincingly and quickly, it could be a good night for new DraftKings customers as well.
