Drake’s UFC Betting History
Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter Drake has become well-known in the UFC community not just for his music but for his high-stakes betting on high-profile fights. While he has experienced both wins and losses, his betting activity often sparks conversation and debate among UFC fans.
Drake’s Biggest UFC Betting Wins
Despite a reputation for picking losers, Drake has landed some significant UFC betting wins, proving that his luck does turn around occasionally. Here are some of his most notable victories⁚
- Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann (UFC London)⁚ Drake’s largest single win came from a $2.2 million bet on Pimblett and McCann to win their respective fights at UFC London in July 2022. Both fighters delivered spectacular finishes, earning Drake a hefty payout, which he celebrated by gifting them Rolex watches.
- Israel Adesanya (UFC 276)⁚ Drake backed Adesanya to win his middleweight title defense against Jared Cannonier at UFC 276, placing a $1 million bet on “The Last Stylebender.” Adesanya secured a unanimous decision victory, earning Drake a tidy profit.
- Jorge Masvidal (UFC 287)⁚ Though not as substantial as his other wins, Drake enjoyed a successful wager on Jorge Masvidal at UFC 287. He placed multiple bets on Masvidal to defeat Gilbert Burns, including a bet on a knockout victory. Masvidal emerged victorious via unanimous decision, adding to Drake’s winning tally.
While Drake may be better known for his high-profile losses, these wins showcase his occasional betting successes in the UFC. It’s important to note that wins and losses are part of the gambling landscape, and even seasoned bettors experience their share of both.
Drake’s Biggest UFC Betting Losses
Drake’s UFC betting history is unfortunately littered with more high-profile losses than wins, leading some fans to joke about a “Drake Curse” affecting the fighters he supports. These losses have become almost as legendary as his music career⁚
- Israel Adesanya (UFC 281)⁚ One of Drake’s biggest and most publicized losses came at UFC 281 when he bet a staggering $2 million on Israel Adesanya to retain his middleweight title against Alex Pereira. Despite being ahead on the scorecards٫ Adesanya was knocked out in the fifth round٫ costing Drake a hefty sum.
- Jorge Masvidal (UFC 272)⁚ Drake took a significant hit when he placed a $275,000 bet on Jorge Masvidal to defeat Colby Covington at UFC 272. Unfortunately for Drake, Covington dominated the fight, winning by unanimous decision and leaving the rapper with a substantial loss.
- Justin Gaethje (UFC 274)⁚ Drake put his faith in Justin Gaethje at UFC 274, placing a massive $550,000 bet on him to defeat Charles Oliveira for the lightweight title. However, Gaethje was submitted in the first round, resulting in another high-profile loss for the Canadian superstar.
These are just a few examples of Drake’s high-stakes losses in the UFC. While his betting activities often generate buzz and excitement, they also highlight the unpredictable nature of combat sports and the risks associated with gambling.
Drake’s Betting Strategy and Preferences
Drake’s UFC betting strategy appears to be driven more by intuition and fandom than a calculated approach. He frequently places large bets on fighters he personally supports or believes in, often favoring flashy knockouts.
High-Stakes Wagers and Knockout Predictions
Drake is renowned for placing substantial bets on UFC fights, often favoring knockout outcomes. He appears drawn to the excitement and potential for significant payouts associated with these types of bets. His high-stakes wagers have made headlines, particularly when he suffers public losses. Notably, he bet $2.2 million on Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann at UFC London in 2022, a wager that paid off handsomely and solidified his reputation as a high roller. However, his losses, like the $400,000 bet on Jorge Masvidal to defeat Colby Covington, have also garnered attention.
Drake’s penchant for knockout predictions reflects a desire for dramatic finishes and potentially aligns with his personal preferences in fighting styles. He seems to gravitate toward fighters known for their knockout power, suggesting an appreciation for the excitement and finality of such victories.
Drake’s Impact on UFC Betting
Drake’s high-profile betting activity has demonstrably impacted the UFC betting landscape; His wagers, often publicized through social media, generate significant buzz and can influence betting lines. The sheer size of his bets, coupled with his celebrity status, draws attention to specific fights and fighters, potentially leading to increased betting action overall.
Furthermore, Drake’s penchant for underdog bets and knockout predictions adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to UFC betting. His wins, while not as frequent as his losses, garner significant attention and fuel the perception that anyone can win big. This can attract new bettors to the sport, particularly those who may not have previously considered UFC betting. While some argue that his influence contributes to a “Drake Curse,” where fighters he backs often lose, it’s undeniable that his presence adds a layer of entertainment and intrigue to the world of UFC betting.