DFS News: MMA Rule Changes

MMA — Rule Changes

In the latest daily fantasy news, we reflect on a raft of rule changes implemented by DraftKings for their MMA contests, with a switch to a more ‘technical’ points scoring system designed to appeal to more strategic DFS managers.

The continued growth in popularity of the UFC has led to a fantastic increase in the numbers of DFS managers drafting rosters for MMA-centered contests. With 2016 being such a golden year for the sport, with two of the largest grossing PPV events in its history taking place this year and UFC 205 set to smash box office records, it’s no surprise to see that UFC-led Daily Fantasy is really hitting its stride.

DraftKings in particular have taken the bull by the horns with the purchase of Kountermove, which was – at the time – the biggest Daily Fantasy sports platform for MMA players. Its own contests have become some of the most lucrative in fantasy gaming history.

They have now rolled out a new set of rules regarding these contests, with a particular focus on higher points for take-downs and knockdowns. Other changes, including expanded rosters, will help to reduce the number of tied prize payouts and maximize variance between drafts.

MMA — Tactical Thinking

The idea behind the change was to create a more just points system that reflects a more strategic approach to drafting, rather than a mere clamor for the big hitters. As you can see from the table below, there are points increases for advances (+2pts), takedowns (+3pts), reversals (+3pts), and knockdowns (+7pts), with a reduction points earned for victories in Round 1 (-10pts) and Round 3 (-5pts). A win earned by decision has enjoyed an increase from 25pts to 30pts, too.

Also, in an unusual twist, the fighter salaries are no longer linked to betting lines, with a more thoughtful approach to managing the salary cap now the key.
The point here for DraftKings is that they clearly want to target a more ‘hardcore’ MMA fan, those who really appreciate the subtle nuances of the sport among the big knockouts and eye-catching strikes. By increasing the points awarded for technical aspects, the company is hoping to attract a new kind of DFS manager.

The rule changes were officially rolled out in time for the UFC: Portland meeting, and will be in place for November’s UFC 205 extravaganza, which looks set to break the previous record for gate receipts for a single MMA event and earn millions of dollars in buy-ins around the world. Conor McGregor will challenge Eddie Alvarez for his Lightweight title, and with the likes of Tyron Woodley, Stephen Thompson, Miesha Tate, Frankie Edgar on the roster, Daily Fantasy managers will have plenty of options for their draft.

Here is your cut out and keep guide to the new DraftKings MMA points scoring system:

Please check our Daily Fantasy Strategy Section for more strategic tips and information about DFS.