Mma betting is one of the fastest growing wagers in sports, fueled by the popularity of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and other professional MMA fight promotions. In addition to standard money line bets on which fighter will win a specific bout, MMA bettors can place prop, future, and method of victory bets. Using a trusted online sportsbook will allow you to place your wagers legally and securely. Many of the best MMA betting sites offer a risk-free bet or welcome bonus for new players.
When handicapping MMA fights, bettors should focus on researching the fighters’ fighting styles and making observations about their recent performances. It’s also important to consider the fighters’ stance, as southpaw fighters may have an advantage over orthodox fighters. A fighter’s record against different opponents should also be taken into consideration, including a fighter’s ability to score takedowns and submission wins.
Depending on the matchup, fighting style, and number of rounds scheduled for a fight, oddsmakers will set Over/Under round totals for each bout. These bets are typically offered at higher odds than those on a fighter’s victory, and they’re available for all rounds of the fight except the first. The oddsmakers add a commission, known as the vig, to the Over/Under totals to calculate their actual value.
A fighter’s weight class is another factor to consider when placing MMA bets. A fighter who struggles to make weight for a fight may be forced to starve themselves and undergo drastic measures to avoid falling below the required weight class, which can have negative effects on their performance in the fight. This is particularly true for fights that involve a lot of grappling, as a fighter may need to bulk up to retain their strength in the opening few rounds.
Bettors should be mindful of a fighter’s history in this regard, as they’ll likely lose their bet if they fail to make weight for the fight. This is especially true if the fighter misses the weight by a small margin, which can have serious consequences for their career.
Betting on MMA fights can be fun, but it should be done with discipline. Never place more than you can afford to lose, and bet only on fights that interest you. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on the overall fight schedule so you can plan ahead for the most popular events. Disciplined betting will help you avoid unnecessary losses and maximize your profits. Good luck!