Putting down a wager on MMA fights is a lot like making a wager on any other sport. However, there are some unique pitfalls that can hurt your bottom line and keep you from cashing in. Fortunately, there are also some tricks and tips that you can use to increase your chances of success.
When betting on MMA fights, the first step is understanding the odds. Typically, these will be presented in a moneyline format with a positive number signifying a favorite and a negative number signifying an underdog. The higher the negative number, the bigger the favorite.
To make the most of your MMA betting experience, be sure to read the odds carefully and pay attention to the moneyline. This reflects the payout associated with betting on each fighter. For example, a favorite may have negative odds of -270 while an underdog will have positive odds of +210. This way, you can identify the fighter that has a better chance of winning and maximize your profits.
Another important aspect of MMA betting is knowing the fighters’ strengths and weaknesses. Oftentimes, fighters who are more well rounded will be able to exploit the weaknesses of a less experienced opponent. In addition, fighters with certain fighting styles will be able to win more often than those who don’t. This is because their style will play right into the opponent’s weakness.
As you place your MMA bets, you should also consider the number of rounds a fight will last. Sportsbooks will set an Over/Under total for each match, and you can bet on whether the fight will last longer (over) or shorter (under) than that amount of time. For a more nuanced bet, you can also place a Method of Victory bet, which predicts how the fight will end. Options include KO/TKO, Decision, or Submission.
It’s also important to note how a fighter performs at the weigh-in. Fighters who struggle to make weight can be at a disadvantage against their smaller opponents, as they will have to take drastic measures to lose weight in a short amount of time. This can leave them tired and drained before the fight even starts. In addition, many fighters have trouble staying hydrated during the fight, which can lead to an early stoppage or a loss.
