Mixed martial arts has grown into a polished sport with professional athletes and regulated and legal sports betting. Betting on MMA matches can be exciting and profitable, but there are some things to keep in mind. The sport’s rapid growth and a burgeoning interest in gambling have gone hand-in-hand, with fight odds often available on multiple fights a night. Understanding MMA betting odds and how they are set can help bettors make smart wagers.
Moneyline and Over/Under bets are common types of MMA wagers. Much like in other sports, a moneyline bet is placed on the winner of a specific matchup, with odds given for each side of the bet. A fighter’s style can also play a factor in a wager’s outcome, with certain fighting styles playing well against others. For example, a southpaw fighter (left-handed fighter) may have an advantage against an opponent with an orthodox stance, as that fighter’s favored side can be difficult to defend against.
Another popular type of MMA wager is the Over/Under on how many rounds a particular fight will last. This is based on the expected number of rounds a fight will last, and oddsmakers offer an Over/Under line with a predetermined price (plus vig or juice) for each side of the bet. Depending on the matchup, style of the fighters involved and the number of rounds scheduled for the bout, it can be easy or hard to pick an Over/Under, but betting smartly can boost your profits.
A fighter’s health should also be taken into account when placing a bet. Some fighters struggle to make the weight limit for their fights, and can be dehydrated or drained leading up to their fights. This can affect their performance inside the octagon, and bettors should be aware of this when capping a fighter.
In addition, a fighter’s form can change significantly if they suffer a knockout loss in a previous fight. This can lead to them becoming more cautious and losing their edge in the ring, which can lead to a lower overall win percentage. Bettors should be wary of this when handicapping a fighter that has suffered a prior KO defeat.
If you are familiar with betting on MMA, you’ll know that parlays are an excellent way to increase your potential payouts while reducing your risk. However, it is important to note that parlays require a higher payout for every winning bet, so they should only be used on large bets or when you are confident in your picks.
Lastly, it is important to shop around for the best MMA betting odds on a given card. While the difference between prices may seem minor, it can add up over time. With the growth of MMA and regulated sports betting in the United States, it is now more important than ever to be selective with your MMA bets.