Mixed martial arts has exploded into one of the fastest growing markets at betting sites and sportsbooks. From the marquee events put on by the UFC to the international fight leagues such as Bellator, the sport draws huge audiences and a ravenous fan base that is eager to get in on the action. Here’s a look at how to bet on MMA fights and what you should know about MMA betting.
Method of victory
One of the biggest aspects to consider when placing a bet on MMA fights is how the fight will end. Typically, you can bet on the fight to end by knockout, technical knockout, submission or decision. A KO involves a fighter being knocked out, a TKO is when the referee stops the fight to protect a hurt fighter and a submission is when the fighter taps out or their cornerman throws in the towel.
If the fight goes the distance, the winner will be determined by judges who will award points based on a number of factors including effective striking, grappling and dominance. In rare cases, a bout can end in a draw.
To better understand a fighter’s strength, you should study their record and how they’ve performed against their opponents. A good rule of thumb is to only bet on a fighter who has defeated at least two foes in the same weight class. Oftentimes, a fighter will lose to an elite-level opponent and win over an inexperienced foe.
Another important aspect to consider when placing a bet on an MMA match is how the fighters’ styles will match up. You should be aware of a fighter’s stance (orthodox or southpaw) and their reach. Those with longer reach can often land more strikes than their shorter counterparts.
You should also be mindful of the weigh-ins that take place the night before a fight. Fighters who come in lighter than their assigned weight class can suffer from fatigue and dehydration by the time they enter the ring. Likewise, those who struggle to make weight can undergo drastic measures to try and cut the weight, which can leave them drained before the fight even begins.
Prop and future bets are popular in MMA betting and can be placed on anything from how many rounds the fight will last to how quickly a fighter will score a knockdown. These wagers can be made online or at a live betting window and offer a fun and lucrative way to place bets on MMA fights.