Unlike football and basketball, MMA has a relatively short history of being embraced by the sports betting industry. As a result, the sport’s lines are often not shaped by the same experts that influence the lines for other sports. This presents an opportunity for savvy bettors to make some money by placing informed wagers. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or simply want to win some cash, here are a few tried and true mma betting strategies that can help you maximize your payouts.
One of the most common and straightforward MMA betting types is the moneyline bet. These odds are typically displayed in a plus and minus format, with the favorite indicated by a minus sign (-) while the underdog is represented by a plus sign (+). Each number represents a different payout on a bet, with the lower the number, the higher the risk.
The key to success when making MMA betting wagers is thorough research and analysis. This includes studying fighters’ styles, records, and recent performances as well as looking at weight and reach differences between the two combatants. It’s also a good idea to follow a fighter’s training camps, especially if they are making a significant weight cut. Fighters who struggle to hit their target weight are more likely to perform poorly in the fight.
Another popular MMA betting option is the over/under bet, which is based on how many rounds a fight will last. This bet can be placed before the fight begins or in-play, and it can pay out very well if you’re able to predict when a fight will end. Several MMA sportsbooks offer exact-round bets, which are even more lucrative as they give you the freedom to pick exactly which round a fighter will win in.
Lastly, be sure to take the time to study the fighters’ backgrounds and previous fights. You can use a variety of metrics to evaluate their skills, including how well they hold up against grapplers and their overall level of skill. Be wary of betting on a fighter who is coming off a knockout loss, as this can often have a negative effect on their mental state and performance inside the octagon.
Moreover, beware of betting on fighters who are coming off a win. This is because fighters who come off a victory often have an easier time cutting and maintaining their weight, which can make it harder for them to perform against fighters who are fighting at the same weight class. This is a common mistake that bettors often make, and it’s something to avoid at all costs. This is particularly true when a fighter is defending a title against an opponent who has had a lot of recent wins. These victories can have a huge impact on the fight’s outcome. A fighter who is a great wrestler but has very little striking skill can be quickly taken down and defeated by a skilled striker, which can lead to a quick finish and a big payout.