MMA betting has become a popular activity and is often referred to as the “Fighting Game.” In the sport of mixed martial arts, there are many different types of wagers that can be placed on fights. These bets can include odds on how the match will end, round totals, method-of-victory bets, and more.
How to Bet on MMA Fights
Unlike other sports, betting on MMA matches can be a lucrative hobby for those who understand the intricacies of the sport and the various wagering options available. However, MMA betting can also be risky if you don’t know what you are doing or don’t have a good understanding of the rules.
Read the Odds Board
As with any combat sport, MMA betting odds are determined by comparing a fighter’s skills and abilities against their opponent. This can be done by looking at the fighter’s style, their stance (orthodox or southpaw), and whether they have any particular advantages over their opponents.
It is important to understand how these factors affect a fighter’s odds, especially in the case of a favorite or an underdog. It is not uncommon for favorite fighters to lose a few times when they have high odds and it is essential that you take the time to do your research before placing a bet.
The Zen of MMA Wagering
One of the most common mistakes that new bettors make is to place too many bets on a single fight or event. This can lead to overspending and putting a strain on the bankroll.
Instead, be selective with your bets and focus on a few key fights and props. This will help you manage your bankroll and keep you from chasing losses.
Look for Value in the Moneyline
The most popular type of MMA bet is the moneyline, which is simply a bet on which fighter will win the match. This bet is similar to a football or basketball moneyline, in that it allows the bettor to pick a winner with just a few clicks of the mouse.
This bet can be used for a variety of reasons, including to predict how the fight will end or for the purpose of adding some spice to an otherwise boring fight. Generally speaking, a moneyline bet has the lowest odds, and winnings are only paid if the bettor predicts correctly which fighter will win.
Using the Over/Under Bets
Another MMA bet that is available at most online sportsbooks is an Over/Under bet. This bet is based on the expected number of rounds that the fight will last. It is important to note that MMA rounds usually last five minutes, so the Over/Under bet is set accordingly.
Public Perception and Odds
When MMA fights receive an overwhelming amount of public money, the odds will shift to balance the action and offer more favorable prices on the underdog. MMA bettors who have an understanding of how these odds work and how public perception can impact them can find opportunities to wager on underdogs that have higher odds than their favorites, and this strategy can be profitable in many cases.