Putting down a wager on an MMA fight might seem simple enough, but there are some pitfalls that even casual gamblers can fall into. While doing the necessary research is a big part of winning any wager, there are some additional steps that can help you place better MMA bets. These tips and betting hacks go beyond the basic research that all bettors should do, but they are specific to MMA betting and can make a difference in your bottom line.
The first step to successful mma betting is learning how to read the odds. Betting odds showcase how much a bettor can win for their wagers, in dollars per $100 wagered. Fighters with minus odds are designated as favorites, while fighters with plus odds are considered underdogs. Betting on the favorite will result in a lower payout than betting on the underdog, but that doesn’t mean the underdog won’t be able to pull off an upset.
Depending on the matchups, the styles of the fighters and how many rounds are scheduled, oddsmakers will set an Over/Under total for the number of rounds expected to be completed in a given fight. The higher the total, the more money you can win on the Over bet. The lower the total, the more money you can win with the Under bet.
As with any sport, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations before placing a bet. The best way to do this is by joining an online sportsbook that offers MMA betting and follows the rules and regulations of the sport. This will ensure that your bets are valid and that you’ll have a chance to withdraw your winnings.
In addition to MMA betting, many sportsbooks offer a variety of prop bets for each fight. Typically, these are more difficult to predict than the outcome of a fight and have larger payouts. Method of victory and round betting props are popular MMA bets that can prove to be quite lucrative if you’re able to do your homework.
Another great tool for MMA betting is social media. By following a fighter’s social media accounts, you can get an inside look at their training regimen, nutrition, injuries and more. This can help you determine if they’re in tip top shape to fight or if they might have trouble making weight for the fight.
You can also bet on a parlay in MMA, where you combine multiple selections for a larger payout. This type of bet is more challenging to win, however, because every leg of the parlay must be correct to earn a payout. This makes it a good option for experienced MMA bettors who have a strong understanding of the sport and its fighters.