MMA betting is more than just picking winners; it involves careful analysis and a thorough understanding of the sport’s nuances. It’s also important to keep a level head when placing wagers, especially during an adrenaline-fueled fight. Never bet more than you can afford to lose and recognise when it’s time to walk away from a losing streak or a bad day.
The simplest bet in mma is the money line bet, which involves choosing the fighter who will win the fight. In a moneyline bet, the fighter with the lower odds is considered the favorite and the fighter with the higher odds is the underdog. Favorites typically carry a minus symbol in front of their moneyline odds, while underdogs are indicated with a plus sign. Often, bettors will make a moneyline bet and then place additional wagers on other parts of the fight, such as the method of victory (knockout, submission, decision).
Another common MMA betting option is the over/under bet. This bet predicts whether a fight will last longer or shorter than a set number of rounds, and can be placed in-play at sportsbooks. Over/under bets can add a new dimension to the MMA betting experience, and can be particularly lucrative for those who pay close attention to fighter history and performance data.
It’s important to note that the MMA gambling controversy has drawn the attention of many people in the fight industry. ESPN spoke to several fighters, coaches and managers who all said that gambling is widespread within the sport. A number of them believe that a large percentage of fighters and other professionals with ties to the sport are betting on every fight, wagering anywhere from $20 to tens of thousands of dollars per card.
In addition to studying fighters’ histories and styles, bettors should consider their health and injury history. A fighter who is recovering from an injury will likely struggle to perform at their best and could potentially have a major impact on the outcome of a fight.
Bettors should also pay attention to a fighter’s weight class. Fighters who have to cut down to a certain weight limit are prone to fatigue and can suffer from dehydration in the lead-up to a fight. They may also undergo drastic measures to prevent a slip-up, which can hurt their chances of winning. On the other hand, fighters who compete at their natural weight classes tend to have more stamina and can be a more effective threat against heavier foes.
