MMA betting is more popular than ever, but it is important for new bettors to understand the sport before wagering. Taking an analytical approach is the best way to make smart MMA wagers. It is never wise to make bets based on emotion. Instead, bet on fighters you believe in and can support with research. This type of wager is often more lucrative than placing a bet on a favorite.
The most basic MMA betting option is the moneyline bet. This is where you place a bet on which fighter will win the fight, and oddsmakers determine the chances of each fighter winning based on their skills, experience, and training. The favorites are given minus symbols while the underdogs receive plus symbols. If the oddsmakers think that a fighter is likely to win, they will offer high odds. If the oddsmakers think a fighter will lose, they will offer low odds.
When betting on MMA, you must look at the fighters’ fighting styles and past performance. It is also helpful to follow a fighter’s training camp to see what they are doing in preparation for the fight. This is especially true when betting on the underdog, as it can give bettors a clue as to whether or not the fighter is in top form and can win against a more experienced opponent.
Taking into consideration the fighters’ stances is another aspect to consider when placing MMA bets. Some fighters are orthodox, while others are southpaw. This can play a role in how a fight ends, as southpaw fighters may have an advantage when it comes to submissions. In addition, looking at a fighter’s KO wins and losses is helpful when handicapping a fight.
In addition to betting on the winner of a specific fight, you can also place bets on how many rounds a fight will last. This type of MMA wager is called the Over/Under Round Totals bet. These bets typically pay out more than bets on individual rounds, as the bettor is betting on how many rounds the entire fight will last.
Another great feature of online MMA betting is the ability to place live bets as the fight happens. This is very beneficial to those that prefer to watch the fight on their mobile devices, as it allows them to bet in real-time and react to events as they unfold. MMA live betting is available on many websites and features the same markets as pre-fight betting, including moneyline, method of victory, and round betting.
While a lot of MMA betting involves making decisions based on the fighters’ strengths and weaknesses, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can make your bets less profitable. One such mistake is betting too much money on a single fight, which can lead to a large loss if your bets are incorrect. To avoid this, track your bets closely and keep a budget in mind at all times. This will help you realize when it is time to stop gambling.