Mixed martial arts has become a popular sport and wagering on fights has grown along with it. While betting on MMA is easy enough, it’s important to do your research and develop a solid strategy before placing your bets. Blindly betting on favorites will see your bankroll diminish quickly so study up on the big matchups and find some value bets.
MMA betting is split into men’s and women’s divisions across several weight classes. Each division features its best combatants and there are also catchweight MMA bouts (where a fighter misses their designated weight class but agree to contest the fight anyway).
When making a bet on a MMA fight, you will first need to fund your account with real money at an online sportsbook. This can be done with a credit card or by using an alternative banking option such as an e-wallet. Once funded, head over to the MMA betting section and select the event you want to place your bets on. You will then be presented with the fight card and an option to add fighters or other bets such as over/under rounds.
Once you’ve made your selections, the odds for your bets will be displayed on the bet slip. The odds are expressed in three main formats, American Odds, Fractional Odds and Decimal Odds and can be adjusted according to your preference. Depending on the sportbook you are using, you may also have the option to use a custom odds expression.
Method of Victory bets are a great way to predict the winner of a MMA fight. These bets are available on both pre-event and in-play markets and offer different payouts based on how the fight ends. The most common way a fight is won is via KO/TKO, submission or disqualification but there are a number of other ways a fighter can win including a judges decision.
When placing a Method of Victory bet it is essential to compare the fighting styles and tactics of your two chosen fighters. This will help you determine how their styles are likely to play out in the ring. For example, if one fighter tends to favour early knockouts over more passive opponents, they will probably aim for a quick finish in the first couple of rounds. In contrast, if your opponent is a well-rounded fighter that can craft wins over the distance, they will likely look to wear down their opponents before delivering a finish.
Similarly, studying a fighter’s camp will give you insight into their mental and physical condition before a bout. Look at their training techniques, if they are preparing for a move up in weight class or if any injury issues have arisen. Pay close attention to weigh-ins too, as a fighter that struggles to make weight could take drastic measures in order to cut the required amount of pounds, which can leave them drained for the fight. This could lead to them being at a disadvantage in the first couple of rounds.