For those used to placing bets on team sports, mma betting can feel like a foreign concept. However, with a little research and understanding of the different types of bets available, you can be making winning MMA wagers in no time.
The most basic MMA bet is the moneyline bet. A moneyline bet involves predicting which fighter will win the fight by either a knockout, submission, or a majority decision. Generally, favorites will have a minus symbol in front of their odds while underdogs will have a plus symbol in front of their odds. The higher the discrepancy between these odds, the bigger the favorite is.
Another popular MMA bet is the over/under rounds total. This is a bet on how many rounds the fight will last, and it is set by the sportsbook based on the style of both fighters and the number of scheduled rounds. To win the over/under bet, the fight must go over the round total by more than the number of rounds set by the sportsbook (in this case 2:30 into the third round). The under/over is also known as the “vig” or “juice”.
Like boxing, MMA has several weight classes and fighters will move up and down in class based on their success and ability to make weight. Fighters that struggle to maintain their weight will have a hard time cutting to make the octagon, and this can affect their performance. This is something that savvy MMA bettors are aware of and will factor into their handicapping.
Following a fighter’s training camp is another way to gain insight into an upcoming fight. Fighters will reveal their plans for the camp on social media, and this can give bettors a good idea of how they’ll approach the fight. This can include their diet, supplements, and training techniques. It can also tell bettors if a fighter is feeling well or if they have any injuries that may hinder their performance.
Unlike most major sports, MMA has a lot of transparency in regards to fighters and their camps. This is a huge advantage for bettors as it can help them understand what to look for in the ring. It can also be useful in identifying potential weaknesses that opponents can exploit.
While it’s tempting to bet more money on a winning fight, it’s important to recognise when your bankroll is getting low. This will allow you to take a step back and recognise the signs of problem gambling, which can lead to financial ruin. Setting a betting budget before each fight and not chasing losses are both tried-and-true methods to managing your bankroll. Aside from this, it’s always a good idea to bet while in a clear mind. Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs will only cause you to make reckless decisions that you’ll regret. This will also prevent you from achieving the most profitable bets. Lastly, be sure to follow the rules of your chosen sportsbook and don’t place bets without verifying that the information is true.