Many MMA fans might not even notice the UFC uses two different size cages. Here’s why – and to whom – it’s important.

For the UFC’s bigger events in bigger venues, the “big cage” (30-foot diameter) is obviously the apparatus of choice. And for the smaller shows in smaller venues, the “small cage” (25-footer) is usually the go-to option.

So why does it matter? MMAjunkie’s Ben Fowlkes recently explored the cage differences and shared some interesting research from statistician and “Fightnomics” author Reed Kuhn, who found that the smaller cage results in more strikes and more finishes.

“It’s not anything magical, just that there’s more engagement in a smaller cage ,” said Kuhn, who devoted a “Fightnomics” chapter to the topic. “It’s silly to think there wouldn’t be an effect. Imagine shrinking a baseball field by 44 percent. You’re going to have way more home runs. Imagine doing the same thing to a hockey rink. It’s going to change how the game is played.”

That’s why cage size has become a key piece of info for MMA bettors and fantasy-sports players (side note: Saturday’s UFC on FOX 16 event at Chicago’s United Center will use the bigger cage). It’s also proving to be a key consideration for many fighters.

Check out the video above as some UFC vets explain the difference and discuss their preferences for the UFC’s cage sizes.

And for more on UFC on FOX 16, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.