Best UFC/MMA Sportsbooks in New Zealand (2024)

Compare the best UFC & MMA betting sites in New Zealand and our UFC/MMA betting guide below.

What is the Best Betting Site for UFC?

Best NZ UFC Betting Sites with Welcome Bonuses

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bet365
Our score: 9/10
Get up to $30 in Bet Credits
  • #1 Best Betting Apps in NZ
  • Free Live Streaming
  • World's Biggest Bookmaker
Betway
Our score: 8/10
NZ$60 Free Bet + 20 Free Spins
  • Trusted Bookmaker
  • High odds
  • Fantastic Betting App
Terms and conditions apply.
Tonybet
Our score: 8/10
100% Up to NZ$150
  • Fast Withdrawals
  • Great Mobile Betting Apps
  • 33+ Sports
BetVictor
Our score: 9/10
100% Matched Free Bet up to NZ$100
  • 30+ Sports
  • Highest Betting Odds in our Tests
  • Live Streaming
10bet
Our score: 8/10
100% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus
  • Crypto-Friendly📈
  • Lots of Reload Offers💰
  • Strict Security✅
This offer is for newly registered players. Terms and conditions apply.
LeoVegas
Our score: 9/10
Up to NZ$50 Free Bet
  • Fantastic Betting Apps on iOS and Android
  • High Betting Odds
  • Fast Withdrawals

Best UFC Betting Sites in New Zealand - Our Top List (Rated and Reviewed)

UFC betting is growing in popularity in New Zealand at the moment, even if the sport has a long way to go to catch up with Rugby's position at the top of the pile.

These days, most major online betting sites in NZ cover UFC, and the big events draw a lot of interest from sports fans.

Betting on the UFC includes the chance to bet on not only the winner of a bout but also the method of their victory. It is also possible to bet on options such as which round a fight will end in. Most UFC betting sites have pre-match odds available well in advance of all the sport's top events, while it should be possible to bet on high-profile events live when they are ongoing, too.

To bet on the UFC from NZ, sports fans will need to sign up for an account with an online betting site that covers the sport. Entering the cashier will enable them to fund their account via one of the many payment methods available, with some sites even accepting cryptocurrency.

To place a bet on the UFC, the process is then just the same as it is for betting on any other sport: Make a selection, add it to the bet slip, choose the stake size, confirm the wager, and then wait to see if it is a winner. But where should fans place their bets?

  1. 1
    bet365:

    Best UFC betting site in NZ for 2024.

  2. 2
    888Sport:

    Best UFC welcome offer in NZ.

  3. 3
    Betway:

    Best for UFC free bets.

  4. 4
    Tonybet:

    Great for UFC statistics.

  5. 5
    BetVictor:

    Best UFC betting odds in New Zealand.

bet365

#1 Best UFC Betting Site in NZ - Bet365

Bst365 is a revered betting site founded in 2000. Kiwis can kick-start their UFC betting journey and earn big on the platform due to the mouth-watering odds.

One of the best reasons to choose Bet365 for MMA betting in NZ is the fact that UFC selections can qualify for the site's multi-sport acca betting bonus.

With this offer, Kiwi users can boost their potential profits by up to 70%, depending on how many selections they add to the acca.

Data offered to Bet365 users includes a tale of the tape, and these statistics can be used to decide what to bet on.

Bet365 UFC betting

At Bet365, you can access many events from different UFC categories and set bets accordingly. Unlike some platforms where you're restricted to picking a winner or loser, Bet365 steps up the anté with these bet formats:

  • Fight to Go the Distance.
  • Total Rounds.
  • Fight Winner.
  • Round Betting.
  • Fight Result.

One thing users will appreciate about Bet365 is the site's extensive FAQs section. This section has answers to everything (yes, we checked), nullifying the need to seek aid from other customer support channels.

Bet365 has the full package and is highly recommended for UFC fans in NZ, even if the payment methods that the site's cashier can use are slightly limited.

Pros

  • Free stats for each fighter on the card.
  • UFC bet builder.
  • Licensed by the UKGC and MGA.
  • Boosted trebles are often available around top UFC events.
  • Large range of MMA betting markets to pick from.
  • High UFC odds are normally among the best around.

Cons

  • Site glitches on mobile devices.
888Sport

#2 Best UFC Betting Site in NZ - 888Sport

If you're a big UFC fan, consider 888Sport. Created in 2008, 888Sport has quickly cemented its fame in many countries, New Zealand inclusive. Regulated by the UK Gambling Commission and Malta Gaming Authority, all gambling-related activities at 888Sport denote fairness.

888Sport MMA betting in NZ

Regarding betting markets, 888Sports keeps it simple. During our review, we discovered one — Bout Winner. So, whilst the favourite for every UFC event has lower odds, the underdog has a higher odd value. 

For site-related transactions, NZ players can deposit or withdraw via NZ-themed payment options like Neteller, Skrill, and Paysafecard.

Pros

  • Decent array of UFC/MMA events.
  • The mobile application is available for Android and iOS devices.
  • Seamless registration process.
  • Licensed by the MGA and UKGC.
  • Intuitive platform.

Cons

  • Limited live streaming alternatives for UFC events.
Betway

#3 Best UFC Betting Site in NZ - Betway

Betway is a betting site revered in multiple jurisdictions. Instituted in 2006, Betway is great for UFC punters.

Customers at Betway have the chance to earn UFC free bets if they place qualifying wagers. With $10 in MMA free bets offered each week, it is one of the best sites for UFC bonuses.

Betway MMA betting in NZ

Here, you can place bets on these UFC competitions:

  • UFC Fight Night.
  • UFC 281.
  • FEN.
  • LFA.
  • Oktagon.
  • KSW.
  • BKFC.

What's better? Your chances of scoring a decent win in these tournaments are heightened with betting markets like:

  • Fight Winner.
  • Total Rounds – 1.5.
  • Total Rounds – 2.5.
  • Will the Fight Go the Distance?
  • To Win By Decision.
  • To Win By Finish.

Interestingly, Betway issues statistics on future UFC or MMA fights. This section gives you an insight into each fighter's form, allowing you to place informed wagers.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use user interface.
  • Multiple UFC betting markets.
  • Statistics on upcoming UFC events are available.
  • Cash Out feature on selected UFC match-ups.
  • Mobile application for Android and iOS.

Cons

  • The site layout looks outdated.
Tonybet

#4 Best UFC Betting Site in NZ - TonyBet

TonyBet hit the ground running in 2013. Since then, the Estonia-based gambling site hasn't looked back, giving NZ bettors access to an immersive wagering adventure with decent promotions and odds.

Tonybet MMA betting in NZ

The site's collection of UFC and MMA events reaffirms one word — vast! Kiwi gamblers can place wagers on these UFC leagues:

  • UFC Fight Night 
  • KSW 75

During our review, we discovered that UFC events had two major betting markets:

  • Winner.
  • Over/Under 1.5.

Although the markets available may seem a bit limited, TonyBet earns some points with its "statistics" area. This section delivers insight into previous UFC results. That way, you can place wagers edging you closer to decent winning combos.

Pros

  • Decent promotional offers.
  • Great UFC odds.
  • Distinct "Statistics" area.
  • Estonia licensing.
  • Proprietary mobile application.

Cons

  • Limited UFC betting markets.
BetVictor

#5 Best UFC Betting Site in NZ - BetVictor

BetVictor is normally ranked among the best betting sites in NZ for odds value, so it comes as no surprise to see that the UFC and MMA betting odds on the site are very high indeed. Those who want to get the best value from their bets on the UFC should certainly sign up here.

The betting interface at BetVictor has a pleasing design. While the MMA events are sorted by time by default, a simple tap or click can change this so that the most popular bouts are at the top. As the main event is the last to take place in a major UFC event, this makes a lot of sense, as the highest-profile matches will then be shown right at the top of the page at BetVictor.

Betvictor UFC betting

BetVictor - which is ranked among the most trustworthy and reliable betting sites - has MMA markets to pick from, such as round betting, method of victory and total rounds, as well as whether or not a bout will go the distance on the night.

For the biggest bouts, special markets like knockdown betting and if the fight will end within a minute are often available here as well.

As BetVictor covers MMA events such as Oktagon as well as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, there is always plenty of choice.

Pros

  • UFC betting odds are some of the highest around.
  • Good choice of MMA markets to browse at BetVictor.
  • Flexibility in how the UFC betting markets are displayed.
  • Reliable and trustworthy online bookmaker for UFC.

Cons

  • Lack of special betting bonuses for UFC and MMA.

UFC Betting in New Zealand

The UFC ranks as the "poster boy" for all Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) events worldwide. With UFC betting now a staple at most NZ betting sites, Kiwi gamblers can now bet on fighters slugging it out in The Octagon. You could almost cut through the trepidation presented by this sport. 

If you're new to UFC betting, don't worry, as this guide contains all the missing jigsaw pieces — from the finest UFC sites in NZ to notable tips for seismic wins. 

Understanding the Differences Between UFC and MMA

Most UFC betting newbies think the terms — UFC and MMA — are the same. However, they aren't.

MMA (mixed martial arts) is the sport itself. Conversely, UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) is an entity that runs its MMA events and promotes them accordingly to a global audience. 

Let's break it down further. Not all MMA fights are UFC events. However, all UFC fights are MMA match-ups. 

Notable MMA Agencies Besides the UFC

Like the UFC, you'll encounter MMA events curated by other organisations on your preferred gambling site.

Notable mentions include:

  • Bellator MMA: Bellator MMA is the second most popular MMA variation after the UFC. Founded in 2008 in California, USA, Bellator has hosted over 2,500 events since its creation.
  • Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA): This Russian MMA organisation was formed in 2014. The ACA has hosted over 110 events since it came on board as a mixed martial arts entity.
  • Fight Nights Global (FNG): Another Russian MMA organisation, the FNG, was founded in 2010 and has hosted over 80 events in different jurisdictions.
  • One Championship: Headquartered in Singapore, One Championship began its MMA journey in 2011. This agency has hosted over 150 fights since its launch.
  • Rizin Fighting Federation (Rizin FF): The Rizin Fighting Federation came into the scene in 2016. Based in Tokyo, Japan.
  • M-1 Global: This MMA franchise is one of the oldest forms still operational worldwide, opening its doors back in 1997.

Notable UFC Rules and Classes

UFC fights happen in the Octagon — an enclosed area with eight sides. This structure has seen individuals tag UFC fights as "cage fighting." Although the Octagon is an eight-sided enclosure, it has set specifications:

  • Diameter: 9.1 metres high.
  • Elevation: 1.2 metres high.
  • Chained Fence: 1.8 metres high.

The mat used in the "Octagon" is replaced after each UFC for hygiene and health reasons.

When the UFC started, fighters could put on anything. However, as the firm grew, several restrictions came to the fore. All UFC fighters must don shorts approved by the health board. Putting on shoes and tops (male UFC only) is illegal. 

A UFC bout's length relies on the event's significance. For context, while championship events are five-round long, smaller UFC fights have three rounds. 

A round lasts for five minutes. Also, one-minute breaks are issued after each round for competitors to rest and receive instructions from their trainers. UFC Judges use a 10-point system to rate fighters. 

Here, three judges can award up to 10 points in every round. After tallying these points, the UFC fighter with the most is announced as the contest winner. 

A UFC match-up can end in various ways, including:

  • Submission: A fighter tapping the mat thrice or saying (verbally) they submit reiterates a submission. These acts aren't reversible.
  • Knockout: Popularly known as KO, a knockout occurs when a fighter is unconscious due to punches or kicks meted out by the opponent.
  • Technical Knockout: Here, the fighter isn't fit to fight, and the referee decides they can't continue with the bout. A doctor and trainer can also issue the technical knockout decision. 
  • Disqualification: Occurs when a fighter deliberately or unintentionally goes against rules during a UFC match-up. 
  • Forfeiture: The fighter opts out of the fight before its conclusion for a reason (i.e., a hamstring injury).
  • No Contest: A "no contest" when a competitor cannot fight till the stipulated number of rounds required by judges to reach a decision.

The UFC also has a set of illegal moves. Currently, the number is at 30+. Notable mentions include:

  • Biting
  • Eye-gouging
  • Hair pulling
  • Fish-hooking
  • Groin attacks
  • Rabbit punches
  • 12 to 6 elbows or (downward elbow strikes)
  • Head stomps
  • Fence holding
  • Clawing
  • Contact avoidance
  • Pile Driving

UFC Weight Classes

UFC events are categorised into weights, just like other combat and MMA events. These classes are known as "Divisions" in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Notable UFC divisions include:

Division (Gender) - Max Weight (KG)

  • Strawweight (Female) - 52.2 kg
  • Flyweight (Female) - 56.7 kg
  • Bantamweight (Female) - 61.2 kg
  • Featherweight (Female) - 65.8 kg
  • Lightweight (Male) - 70.3 kg
  • Super Lightweight (Male) - 79.4 kg
  • Middleweight (Male) - 83.9 kg
  • Super Middleweight (Male) - 88.5 kg
  • Light Heavyweight (Male) - 93 kg
  • Cruiserweight (Male) - 102.1 kg
  • Heavyweight (Male) - 120.2 kg
  • Super Heavyweight (Male) - Unspecified

NOTE: UFC classes became a thing in 1997.

UFC Betting Tips and Strategies

The UFC is unpredictable. As a Kiwi bettor interested in wagering on related events, it'll be best to use some tips and strategies to make headway and effect decent winning combinations. Here are tips we recommend adopting:

Look for the Best Odds

Betting on high odds is the only way you can effect the astronomical winnings you crave. For the highest UFC odds, we advise registering on multiple NZ betting sites with related events available. That way, you can compare and contrast UFC odds on these platforms and place bets on the variation with the highest odd value. 

Pick Your Fights Carefully

This phrase might sound didactic, but it applies to UFC betting. Before wagering on a UFC match-up, analyse fighter records. Check how many rounds each fighter lasted in their previous matches, KO rates, and fighting styles. Doing this allows you to make informed bets. 

Back the Underdog

"Backing the underdog" is a UFC tip that works, albeit sparingly. We recommend implementing this tip when a betting platform gives the "favourite" status and odds to a fighter experiencing a recent form dip. If you back the underdog here, you can effect astronomical wins. 

Seek Expert Views

Doing research is great. But do you know another thing to help you make colossal UFC bet winnings? Seeking experts' views! To get started, scour platforms YouTube for insight into what top-notch analysts like Joe Regan, Luke Thomas, and The Weasel think about upcoming events. However, we recommend sieving out the bits that tally your UFC betting adventure, as several analysts might dole out the wrong strategies now and then.

Watch UFC Fights

Listening to expert "takes" and doing research is great. However, you'd need to watch UFC fights regularly to understand the event, especially if you wager based on generalisations. For context, you may feel Israel Adesanya can't defeat Paulo Costa due to the latter's physique. Well, this assumption is false, as Israel has "quick feet" and can dish out a kick resulting in a Costa K.O.