MMA is an action-packed sport that combines a variety of fighting disciplines into one. The sport is regulated by various authorities worldwide to ensure that there are always fights taking place. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the most popular and well-known MMA authority, but there are many more that hold their own events. The sport has exploded in popularity over the past decade and betting on MMA is now a huge business. It is important to understand how to bet on MMA correctly to maximize your profits.
There are a few different types of bets in MMA, including moneyline bets and point spread bets. Moneyline bets are straightforward wagers on which fighter will win the fight. Point spread bets involve a more complicated calculation, and the payout for these types of bets will depend on the difference between the two fighters’ odds against each other. You can also make a parlay bet, which combines multiple individual bets for a larger payout. For example, picking a big underdog like Ferguson over Gregor Gillespie could earn you a $230 payout for a $100 bet.
Another type of MMA bet is the method-of-victory wager. This type of bet allows you to choose whether a specific fighter will win via KO/TKO, submission, or decision. These bets tend to offer lower odds than traditional moneyline bets, but they can still provide an interesting and entertaining wager on a fight.
When placing MMA bets, it is crucial to pay attention to the fighter’s weight class and their progress leading up to the fight. Paying close attention to weigh-ins can give you an idea of how a fighter will perform on fight night. Fighters who are struggling to make weight can undergo drastic measures to avoid missing the cut, such as starving and dehydrating themselves. This can cause them to lose a lot of cerebrospinal fluid, which can leave them susceptible to a knockout.
Lastly, paying attention to a fighter’s style and technique can help you find profitable MMA bets. Different fighters’ styles play off of each other in a way that gives some an advantage over others. For example, a fighter with good boxing skills can beat an opponent who is better at wrestling.
One of the best ways to profit from MMA betting is by making use of the various prop bets available for each fight. These wagers offer a variety of betting options, including the Over/Under for round totals. Depending on the matchup, style of the fighters involved, and the number of rounds scheduled, the oddsmakers will set an Over/Under for the expected number of rounds to be completed in the fight. A good rule of thumb is to only bet on the Over if you expect a majority of the fight to be finished within five rounds. This is because a shortened fight will not result in the same payout as a full-length fight. If you do this, you’ll have a much higher chance of winning your bet.