MMA betting has shown massive growth in recent years thanks to its unique style, entertaining personalities, and the number of fights held each year. However, the sport is complex and requires extensive research in order to make informed wagering decisions. While betting on MMA matches is not without risk, a proper strategy can minimize that risk and lead to profitable bets.
The most basic MMA bet is the moneyline wager, which allows you to place a bet on which fighter will win a specific bout. Like sports betting odds in general, these moneyline MMA bets typically feature a favorite and an underdog, with the favorites being indicated by a minus symbol in front of their odds, and the underdogs by a plus sign. MMA betting markets also offer Over/Under bets on the number of rounds a match will last, as well as parlays.
Prop bets on method of victory are another popular MMA betting market. This type of bet is based on physical comparisons between fighters, including things like reach and size. For example, an aggressive fighter who has a longer reach may be undeterred from attacking their opponent early on, and can withstand the initial barrage in order to set themselves up for a late-round submission.
In addition to these common MMA betting options, there are also many other types of specialized wagers that can be placed. These bets can be as simple as picking a winner by a certain method, or as complicated as predicting the exact method of victory (Knockout/TKO, Decision, or Submission). While these MMA betting options are more niche than the typical moneyline bet, they can be just as fun and rewarding.
Lastly, it’s important for bettors to understand the role public perception plays in MMA betting odds. In order to balance the amount of money being bet on both sides of a fight, sportsbooks commonly adjust betting lines in an attempt to discourage one side or the other. This can be frustrating for bettors who have a good idea of which side they want to back, but are unable to find favorable odds.
The first step in determining which bets to place is to do some research on the two fighters involved. This can include everything from their previous wins and losses to their fighting styles and strategies. Additionally, it’s a good idea to look into their injury histories as well as any outside factors that may impact the bout, such as travel issues or training camp schedules. It’s also helpful to take a closer look at how a fighter has performed against their opponents, as this can be indicative of how they will perform in the future.