MMA betting is an exciting and fast-growing form of sports wagering. Bettors can place wagers on a variety of different outcomes for an upcoming fight, including how many rounds the fight will last and whether it will end in a knockout (KO), submission, or judge decision. Conducting research on a fighter’s past performances and training camp can help bettors find success with their wagers.
Like other popular combat sports, MMA has multiple weight classes that fighters fall into. Matchups between fighters of the same weight class are common. Fighters are typically listed with their weight class and the odds for them to win their next fight. Favored fighters will be listed with a minus symbol while underdogs will carry a plus symbol. In MMA, the higher the odds for a fighter, the more likely a bookmaker believes they will win their upcoming fight.
Betting on a fighter’s performance can yield lucrative results for bettors. However, bettors should always set a budget for their gambling activities and never spend more than they can afford to lose. In addition, bettors should avoid placing wagers on a fighter they do not know well. This can be a costly mistake that could lead to a financial disaster.
It is also important for bettors to understand MMA betting odds before making any wagers. These odds showcase how much a bettor can win for their wagers, per $100. Typically, fighters with more experience and a better record in the ring will receive lower odds than those who are less experienced or have a poorer fighting history.
One of the most basic MMA betting bets is the money line, which is a simple bet on which fighter will win a fight. This bet type is usually offered at most sportsbooks and can be found on the event page for each fight. While it is tempting to bet on a favorite every time, doing so can quickly burn through your bankroll. Instead, look for value bets on underdogs and make a small amount of bets in order to maximize your payouts.
Another way to increase your profits is to parlay your MMA bets. This strategy is risky, however, so be sure to consider the risks before making a parlay. Additionally, MMA parlays often have smaller pay outs than single bets.
MMA fighters must maintain a healthy bodyweight in order to fight, so many of them must undergo rigorous weight cuts in preparation for their bouts. Some fighters struggle to make weight and can suffer injuries or health issues as a result. Those who are close to missing their weight classification may go through drastic measures in the days leading up to a fight, such as starving and dehydrating themselves. These tactics can leave fighters drained and unable to perform their best in the octagon. This should be taken into consideration when betting on a fighter who is moving up or down in weight class.