Mma betting can seem a little foreign to those who are used to wagering on team sports. After all, MMA bettors are betting on just two people who happen to be fighting each other in the same ring. However, a thorough understanding of the sport can make it a fun and lucrative experience.
When it comes to mma betting, the most basic wager is the moneyline bet. This is a simple bet on which fighter will win the fight. The odds of a fighter’s victory are reflected by the positive or negative values in their moneyline odds. A favorite will have a minus sign in front of their odds, while underdogs will have a plus sign in front of their odds.
Another popular MMA bet is the over/under rounds bet. This wager is based on the number of rounds a fight will last, and whether it will go over or under a specific round total. You can also place a bet on the Method of Victory, which is a bet on how a particular fighter will win the fight (by KO/TKO, submission or decision).
There are three main types of odds expressions, American Odds, Fractional Odds and Decimal Odds. A sportsbook will feature by default the one that is most used in their country or region, but a bettor can change the expression to what they prefer. Odds for a given fight will shift from the time they open until the night of the event, and any news that may be released can also change the lines.
Aside from the standard bets, MMA betting offers several unique proposition bets, which are a fun way to get in on the action. These include the Round Bets, the Method of Victory and the FOTN. These bets require a deeper understanding of the fighters and their strengths and weaknesses, but they offer a chance for a larger payout than standard bets.
Mma bettors should avoid making common mistakes when placing a wager. For example, a fighter can be overvalued when their opponent has a similar record and style to their own. This can lead to bettors doing what is known as “MMA Math,” where they compare records and opponents to determine who will win a fight. However, this type of analysis often distracts bettors from studying fight film and handicapping styles.
As with any sport, a bettor’s success rate will be directly related to their level of preparation and research. This includes considering a fighter’s past performances, injury history, weight and reach differences, and more. It is also important to understand the nuances of the sport, such as how a fighter’s style can change after a knockout loss or a split decision. In addition to the basics, MMA bettors should keep an eye out for underdog opportunities and fighters that are ready to take a step up in class. This can create interesting betting markets and lead to potential upsets.