The betting landscape for UFC 329 is showing a peculiar trend: Conor McGregor is the most bet-on fighter, drawing a significant amount of money, yet the odds continue to shift in favor of his opponent, Max Holloway. This movement is attributed to "respected, sharp action" on Holloway.
At BetMGM, McGregor has accumulated the most total money bet of any fighter on the 14-fight card. However, sources indicate that the betting line has consistently moved towards Holloway, a sign of professional bettors placing wagers on him. A spokesperson for BetMGM confirmed this, stating, "The line is moving toward Holloway but we are still getting lopsided action on McGregor."
This dynamic suggests a strong level of confidence in Holloway from informed bettors, even as McGregor, the biggest star in mixed martial arts history, returns after a five-year hiatus. The fight is scheduled for Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The betting markets are closely watching the prop bets, with most centered around the main event. For instance, Conor McGregor by KO/TKO or DQ is listed at +275, while Max Holloway by KO/TKO or DQ is at -145. McGregor by Submission is a long shot at +2500, and McGregor by Decision/Technical Decision is +1400. Holloway by Decision/Technical Decision offers better odds at +500.
This scenario is particularly noteworthy as many had speculated that money was coming in on Holloway, causing his line to move from -210 to -300 earlier in the week. The current trend, however, indicates a continued shift despite McGregor's overwhelming popularity among the betting public.
McGregor previously faced Holloway in 2013, winning by unanimous decision. Notably, McGregor fought through an ACL tear during that bout. Holloway, a Hawaiian-born fighter, will be looking to capitalize on the betting public's strong leanings towards McGregor to secure a win and potentially impact the betting houses significantly.