MMA betting is a lucrative and exciting way to wager on fights. While the sport’s betting markets are flooded with opportunities, it is important for bettors to remain disciplined and stick to a well-researched plan of action to avoid losing money. To do so, bettors should consider several factors such as fighters’ styles, records, recent performances, and even weight and reach differences. In addition, bettors should stay updated on any news related to the fights they are betting on.
Moneyline bets are the simplest form of MMA betting, and are based on a simple plus and minus system. Favorites are expected to win, so they offer a lower payout, while underdogs present more risk but also offer a higher reward. This enables bettors to balance out their betting strategy and maximize their profits. The odds of a fighter can fluctuate based on the volume of betting, so it is important to monitor them closely.
Another popular type of MMA bet is Over/Under betting, which involves predicting how many rounds a fight will last. Sportsbooks set a round total and bettors can choose to wager on whether the fight will be longer (Over) or shorter than that number. This wager type is especially good for MMA bouts that have multiple scheduled rounds.
For a more nuanced betting experience, bettors can also place a Method of Victory bet. This bet type predicts which way a fight will end, including via knockout, submission, or judges’ decision. The bettor must correctly pick the method of victory to win this bet.
Point spreads are another specialized form of MMA betting. These wagers give a slight edge to underdogs, but only if a specific amount of points is scored in the fight. For example, a UFC favorite may receive +5.5 points. This means they can lose by up to 5.5 points on the judges’ scorecard and still win. This enables bettors to hedge their bets and limit the potential loss in case of a close decision.
In MMA, bettors can also place prop bets and parlays, which combine multiple selections for a larger payout. These bets require more research and analysis, as they can affect the overall outcome of a fight. Bettors should take into account the fighters’ styles, injuries, and past performances when making these types of bets.
Finally, bettors can also place in-fight prop bets, which allow them to make wagers on specific in-fight events. These bets are often available at live betting markets and can be placed in the middle of a match. They can be placed on everything from in-fight rematches to submission attempts and knockouts. While they offer less options than pre-fight wagering, in-fight prop bets can be very profitable if placed correctly.