If you are an MMA fan, chances are you’ve been exposed to betting odds in some form or another. In fact, MMA is one of the most progressive sports in terms of accepting and encouraging sports betting. That’s why, if you’re even just a casual fan, you’ve probably heard the words “underdog” and “favorite” used in reference to a particular fight. The most common types of mma betting are moneyline/match bets on who will win a fight, over/under bets on the number of rounds a fight will last and parlays. While many MMA bettors find the moneyline prices on who will win to be fairly dialed in, it can be very profitable to place bets on underdogs and take advantage of the lower than usual margins.
In addition to traditional bets, MMA betting offers a variety of exotic wagers such as round bets and method of victory bets. In a round bet, bettors predict which round the stoppage will occur in. These bets are more precise than the moneyline or over/under and often yield a higher payout. In the Nurmagomedov-Ferguson fight, for example, round bets on a fighter winning in Round 2 have much better odds than betting on the overall winner of the fight.
Similarly, in a method of victory bet, a bettor can choose to bet on a particular way either fighter will win the fight. This includes KO/TKO, Decision, Submission and, in some cases, a Technical Draw (where the judges are unable to determine a winner). These bets, which are placed in-game while the fight is occurring, can offer huge returns, particularly as fighters’ styles clash.
As with any type of wagering, it is important to manage your bankroll and have realistic expectations. Remember that MMA is an unpredictable sport, and losing streaks are very common. If you’re planning to bet on a fight, make sure you set aside a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. In addition, be careful not to chase losses or get too confident after a few wins. Finally, always bet with the intention of having fun and never put more money on a wager than you can afford to lose. If you do, you’ll likely regret it later. The most successful MMA bettors are those who bet with their head, not their heart. That’s why following a fighter’s training camp can be so beneficial. Keeping tabs on a fighter’s strength and conditioning, as well as their fighting style can all help you predict how they will perform in an upcoming matchup. Remember to also consider how a fighter’s size will affect their performance and look at other factors such as reach, stance and kicking game.