MMA betting is a fast-paced, high-octane form of sports wagering that seamlessly blends striking and grappling techniques from a variety of martial arts disciplines. The sport is gaining popularity around the world, and its growing global reach means that more bettors are looking to get in on the action. However, MMA betting is a bit different from traditional sports handicapping and requires a unique set of skills to be successful. This article will help you make the most of your MMA betting experience and walk you through the basics of betting on the sport.
The first step in mma betting is to understand the basic moneyline bet. This is a wager on which fighter you think will win the fight. You can place a moneyline bet at any online sportsbook, and odds on the favorite will be displayed with a plus symbol and those on the underdog with a minus. If there is no clear favorite, the odds will be listed as a pick’em.
You can also bet on specific occurrences in the fight with MMA prop bets. These bets are often available at higher and more profitable odds than standard moneyline bets. Examples include bets on who will score the first knockdown, or whether a particular fighter will attempt a certain submission maneuver. These bets are fun and offer an opportunity to add some drama to your MMA betting experience.
In addition to these individual fighter prop bets, you can also place a bet on the round-by-round total of a fight. Essentially, you are betting on how many rounds the fight will last, with the over/under being set at a number that is higher than or equal to the sum of all of the individual round-by-round totals. This type of bet is a good way to hedge your bets, especially when placing bets on a fight you expect to go the distance.
Another popular MMA betting option is the Over/Under on the method of victory. These bets are based on the fighting styles of both fighters and their overall record in the sport. For example, aggressive fighters that rely on early finishes might result in lower over/under lines, while matchups between defensive competitors might skew the line toward the over.
Mma bettors should also consider exterior factors that may influence the outcome of a fight, such as a fighter’s ability to travel (given that the sport takes place internationally) and their training history. In the latter case, it can be helpful to see if a particular fighter has recently suffered a KO defeat, as this may negatively affect their performance in the octagon. Similarly, a fighter who loses a fight by decision can become sour on the sport, leading to a drop in their performances as they try to regain their lost confidence. This can likewise affect their odds of winning in future bouts. All of these elements should be considered when making your UFC bets, especially those on live matches.