MMA · Significant Strikes
What Are Significant Strikes in MMA DFS?
Last updated October 9, 2026 by Ship It Nation
Significant strikes in MMA include all strikes at distance, outside a close grappling hold, plus forceful strikes during that hold or on the ground. For DFS scoring, only landed strikes count, not missed attempts.
Why It Matters
You can earn substantial striking points without a knockout, but winning a slow decision does not guarantee a useful fantasy score. Evaluate expected landed volume alongside salary, finishing chances and grappling production. Longer fights offer more scoring time, but an early stoppage or extended wrestling can sharply reduce your projected striking total.
Example
Say your fighter lands 90 significant strikes and 20 additional, non-significant strikes in a decision win on DraftKings. The significant strikes contribute 36 points, the other strikes add 4, and the decision bonus adds 30, totaling 70 before any other scoring. Those 90 significant strikes are part of the 110 total strikes, not an additional 90.
Compare significant strikes landed per minute with the opponent's absorption rate, then adjust for likely fight duration and wrestling. Treat averages from very short fights or limited samples cautiously.
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Common Questions
How many fantasy points is a significant strike worth?
A landed significant strike earns 0.4 points on DraftKings and 0.6 on FanDuel before any lineup-slot multiplier. DraftKings awards 0.2 for the landed strike plus another 0.2 because it is significant. That makes 50 significant strikes worth 20 and 30 points, respectively.
Do significant strikes include jabs, leg kicks and ground strikes?
Yes. Landed jabs and leg kicks at distance count, along with forceful strikes in close grappling holds or on the ground. A strike does not need to cause a knockdown. Short, light punches while holding someone down can count toward total strikes without qualifying as significant.
Are significant strikes worth more in five-round fights?
No, each strike has the same fantasy value. Five rounds allow up to 25 minutes of fighting instead of 15, giving you more potential volume. That opportunity depends on the fight lasting and the fighters staying active, so do not automatically project a full five rounds.