MMA is one of the most exhilarating sports to watch, as highly skilled athletes battle each other in close quarters. It is also a sport that can end at any moment, with a destructive punch to the liver or a tight rear-naked choke stopping the fight in just seconds. As such, the oddsmakers for mma fights must take several factors into consideration when creating a set of betting lines.
Whether you are a novice or an experienced punter, understanding the intricacies of MMA betting can help you make smarter decisions about your wagering. It is important to study a fighter’s performance history and gain technical insight into their fighting styles. This can give you an edge over the competition when placing bets. It is also advisable to follow the camp of each fighter in order to gain an insight into their preparations for an upcoming fight.
There are a variety of different bet types available for MMA matches, but the most basic is the moneyline bet. Moneyline bets in MMA are based on a fighter’s expected win percentage and can be seen by looking at their odds on the sportsbook’s website or app. Favorites are indicated by a minus symbol in front of their odds, while underdogs have a plus sign.
Spread betting on a fight is another common type of bet. This bet involves a team or individual scoring more points than the opposing side, and it is available on many of the best MMA betting sites. A bettor can also place a bet on the under/over round total, which is an over/under on the number of rounds in a fight.
A good MMA betting strategy is to support younger fighters, as they tend to win more than their older counterparts. A recent study by the University of Nevada found that when a fighter was five years or more apart in age, the younger fighter won 61% of the time. However, you should always pay attention to form and look at a fighter’s record in their own weight class before supporting a youngster.
Another popular bet is on a fighter’s ability to finish the fight within a certain number of rounds. This bet type is available on most MMA betting sites, and it is possible to get more specific by choosing the exact number of rounds in which you think the fight will end. This bet type carries a higher payout than standard over/under bets, but is still subject to variance.
Some MMA betting sites offer a third option, known as a parlay bet. This bet requires that all parts of the bet come true for a bettor to receive their payout. This type of bet is risky and should only be placed by punters who understand the risks involved. It is also a good idea to find a reputable bookmaker, as low ratings can significantly impact your profitability over the long term.