Mixed martial arts has come a long way from the raw and uncensored early days of the UFC. Now, the sport has mainstream media coverage and a formal rulebook. Betting on MMA fights has become just as popular as betting on any other major sports event. But there are a few things you should know before placing your bets.
One of the most important aspects of mma betting is understanding how fighters’ styles match up with each other. For example, a fighter with a southpaw stance will have an advantage over an orthodox fighter. In addition, fighters with a grappling background will be able to take down opponents faster than those who have more striking skills. A good handicapper will look at all of these factors when making a bet on an upcoming fight.
Besides the Moneyline, many online sportsbooks also offer a variety of MMA prop bets. These are wagers on specific aspects of a fight, such as how a particular fighter will win or the total number of rounds a fight will last. They’re generally more accurate than the Moneyline and can yield better payouts. For example, a bet on a particular method of victory (inside the distance, submission, or knockout) can have an enormous payoff if the fighter wins by that method.
While some bettors will simply pick a favorite on the Moneyline, others will go for the more entertaining MMA prop bets. These types of bets require more research and analysis, but they can pay off big. A bet on the round in which a fight will end is another great way to add excitement to your MMA betting experience.
When it comes to MMA prop bets, it’s important to understand that not all of them are created equal. In fact, the most profitable MMA bets are those that are placed on fighters who have a good track record in their weight class. These bets often involve examining a fighter’s statistics, including their striking accuracy and strikes landed per minute. While a fighter with better striking ability may have a higher strike-to-miss ratio, they will also be more likely to suffer from a bad cut or other injury that could affect their performance in the octagon.
MMA betting lines are adjusted throughout the week as more and more action is placed on each matchup. The influx of money on the Moneyline will cause the line to move, often in favor of the underdog. As a result, it’s important to follow the oddsmakers closely and make adjustments when necessary.
Lastly, MMA betting also involves analyzing the fighters’ ring history. A good MMA bettor will look at the overall record of a fighter and consider their past performances in each weight class, as well as their history with other competitors. It’s not uncommon for a fighter to lose to an opponent in the same weight class, but that doesn’t mean the current foe will be a pushover.