MMA betting is a fast-paced and exciting way to engage with the sport, and can provide some big payouts if you know what you’re doing. The key to successful MMA betting goes beyond researching fighters and events, and requires a more nuanced understanding of the odds and potential payouts. In this article, we’ll discuss some tried and true MMA betting strategies that can improve your chances of winning.
One of the most common mistakes made by new MMA bettors is betting on a favorite without considering their style and matchup with the underdog. Even a star like Conor McGregor can be taken down by someone with a more aggressive fighting style or better in-ring tactics. This is because most MMA fighters are well rounded and train in a variety of disciplines, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
Another common mistake is placing a money line bet without understanding the odds and the payout structure. This is because the MMA market has much lower liquidity than sports such as the NFL and NBA, meaning big bets can move the lines in a hurry. This can create a false sense of value, as bettors may see a favorite at -140 and think they have good odds to win. However, in reality, this is not always the case.
The best way to understand MMA betting odds is by looking at the spread between the underdog and the favorite. The closer the spread, the higher the odds for the underdog and the lower the odds for the favorite. If the odds are equal, then there is no betting value and you should pass on this wager.
In addition to moneyline bets, MMA betting offers a variety of prop bets. These bets cover a range of different outcomes within the fight, from predicting the method of victory to pinpointing the exact round in which the fight will end. Prop bets can add a whole new dimension to the betting experience and require a more in-depth knowledge of the fights.
Other popular MMA betting options include over/under bets, which involve wagering on the number of rounds that the fight will last. The over/under is set by the sportsbook, and bettors can place a bet on whether the fight will go longer (over) or shorter (under) than that number. Finally, bettors can also place bets on a specific method of victory, such as submission, knockout, or decision.
Another crucial part of MMA betting is following fighters’ training camps. This can provide some valuable insights into an upcoming fight, such as if a fighter is making a weight class jump and appears to be slowing down or struggling in sparring. Additionally, it’s important to consider a fighter’s home venue, as travel can wreak havoc on an athlete’s energy levels and overall health. Finally, be sure to take into account any injuries that a fighter has sustained in training. These factors can all impact a fighter’s performance in the cage, and are often reflected in their fight odds.