MMA betting makes the sport more immersive for fans by placing a personal stake in the outcome of each fight. Understanding the different types of wagers, researching fighters and managing your bankroll are important steps to successful MMA betting. A thorough understanding of the sport’s rules and regulations will also help bettors make more informed decisions.
Moneyline MMA bets are the most basic type of bet and involve choosing a winner based on the odds offered by a sportsbook. Favorites are typically indicated by a minus sign (-) and underdogs by a plus sign (+). The odds will differ depending on the strength of each team, but you can expect a higher payout if you bet on a favorite than an underdog.
Round betting allows bettors to place wagers on how many rounds a fight will last. Generally, each round is scored by three judges using a system of 10 points for a win and nine points for a loss. The winner of each round will be determined by the highest total score, with a split decision resulting in a tie.
The majority of MMA bets are placed on the method of victory, with options including knockout/technical knockout, submission and judges’ scorecards (including a Draw). The winner of a fight will be the one who scores more points across all three judge’s scorecards.
Prop bets, or proposition bets, are a great way to add more variety to your betting strategy. These bets offer a range of outcomes based on research and observations, such as the number of strikes landed or how long a fight will last. Prop bets can provide a more lucrative payout, but you’ll need to do your homework to find the best value.
Fight analysis is essential for MMA bettors, who should consider the style and record of each fighter, as well as recent performances. For example, some fighters are known to gas out early in a fight, which can leave openings for their opponents. In addition, if a fighter is demonstrating superior stamina, they’ll often be reflected in the live odds.
Aside from researching fighters, bettors should pay close attention to ring rust and injuries. Fighters who have been away from the octagon for extended periods are more likely to suffer setbacks in their return. Spotting these issues and fading favorites who appear to be losing their edge is key to success in MMA betting.
MMA is a brutal sport, and even the most dominant stars can lose to rising underdogs. Successful MMA bettors will seek to identify underdogs with something to prove, such as fighters making their UFC debuts following an impressive performance in another promotion. They will also be on the lookout for aging favorites who are starting to show signs of decline. A strong knowledge of the sport’s rules and trends will help bettors to avoid these pitfalls and improve their chances of winning.