For those who are used to putting down wagers on team sports, betting on MMA fights can seem intimidating. There are a lot of factors to consider, including the fighters’ strengths and weaknesses, how they match up with each other, and the overall style of the sport. However, it’s important to note that there are a few key concepts that go beyond just doing your research – namely, understanding how to read MMA odds. This article will teach you the basics of MMA betting and how to place smart wagers that maximize your profits.
MMA is a very fast-paced sport and, as such, the odds are constantly changing throughout the course of a fight. This is due to the fact that, as the event draws closer, more people are betting on each fighter and the oddsmakers’ algorithms are trying to balance out these wagers as best they can. For this reason, it’s imperative that you check the odds as often as possible to ensure you’re getting the most accurate information.
As a beginner, you’ll want to start by familiarizing yourself with the different types of MMA wagers available. The most basic, and probably the most popular, is placing a bet on which fighter will win a specific round. This type of bet utilizes the plus and minus system and can be very profitable if done correctly.
The other major type of MMA wager is the Over/Under total for the entire fight. This bet is based on the number of rounds that are scheduled to take place in the match and the fighting styles of each fighter. For example, a match between two fighters who are both known for their aggressive styles is likely to have an Over/Under of 3.5 rounds.
When betting on Over/Under totals, it’s important to note that a bet on the Over will have a higher payout than a bet on the Under. This is due to the fact that a bet on the Over is expected to win, so it has a lower risk.
Another way to find a value bet is to look for a fighter who is taking a step up in class. This is especially true for smaller, more unknown fighters who may not have a huge following. However, these underdogs are often well-prepared and can perform just as well against elite-level opponents as a fighter with a larger following.
Finally, it’s also a good idea to consider the fighters’ stances when making a wager. For instance, southpaw fighters are usually at a disadvantage against orthodox fighters because they don’t have the same footwork.
In addition to these basic MMA wagers, there are many other options available, such as Method of Victory and Live bets (wagers placed as the fight is happening). The latter offer a more dynamic experience and can sometimes lead to a big payout. However, they are more difficult to predict and require a deeper understanding of the fighters’ strengths and styles.