MMA betting is one of the most popular forms of wagering on combat sports. While many casual gamblers might be tempted to place a wager on any fight, the smartest MMA bettors are those who take the time to research each fight.
There are a variety of MMA betting options available at online sportsbooks, including moneyline and match bets on who will win, over/under bets on the number of rounds a fight will last, and parlays. Each of these wagers comes with its own set of risks and rewards, so you should always understand what you’re getting into before you place a bet.
Betting Odds and Lines
Most MMA fights are public events, meaning the odds for each fighter are posted at online sportsbooks. These lines often move quickly, so bettors should be sure to line shop for the best prices.
Underdog Bets
MMA betting has a reputation for favoring the favorite, but this isn’t necessarily true. In fact, if you’re looking for value, underdogs are usually a good bet to place. While you may have to put up a little more cash to win an underdog bet, it can be worth the risk in order to make a profit in the long run.
Styles Matter
The style of a fighter can make or break a fight. If a fighter is more aggressive than their opponent, they will be more likely to pounce on the opponent and take them down early. On the other hand, a fighter who’s more passive and boasts a longer reach can be expected to fend off their opponent’s attacks and set themselves up for a victory in the later rounds.
Opponents and Their Record
Taking the time to study the opposition of your fighter is crucial to making an informed MMA bet. While their record may be an indicator of how they’ve performed in recent bouts, it’s also important to consider how they compare to other fighters within the same organization.
For example, a fighter’s defeats have probably come against more elite opponents while their victories have been over rivals with lesser skill levels. This reflects the fighter’s ability to adapt and overcome their opponents.
In addition, it can help you gauge the quality of the opposition. A strong record against weaker opponents can be a sign that a fighter is on their way up, while a series of defeats to lower-level competition suggests that they are in decline.
Other factors to consider in MMA betting include how much weight each fighter will come in at before the fight. Generally speaking, fighters that are heavier than their opponents on weigh-in day tend to win more often.
MMA betting odds are formed using a combination of physical statistics and past fight results, and they can be misleading. For example, a fighter with a high percentage of their wins coming from strikes may be overpriced at a bookmaker’s odds. On the other hand, a fighter with a higher percentage of their losses coming from grappling may be undervalued. By knowing this, you can place a more informed MMA bet and maximize your winnings.