When betting on MMA fights, it is important to understand how odds work. These odds showcase how much a bettor can win for their wager per $100, and they are used to determine the likelihood of a fighter winning a particular bout. For example, if a fighter has minus odds (example: -200) they are considered the underdog in the fight. While this is a general rule of thumb, it should not be the only factor when placing a bet.
Aside from who wins a fight on the money line, other popular MMA betting markets include over/under rounds. This bet is based on how many total rounds the fight will last and can pay out a higher payout than just betting on who will win. In addition, a bettor can also place a bet on method of victory. This bet is a more specific way to predict how a fight will end, with options including KO/TKO, submission, and points.
Another important aspect of MMA betting is to look at the overall experience of both fighters. This includes the number of fights both have under their belt and their previous finishes. A fighter with more experience will usually be better prepared for a fight than one who is newer to the sport. This can make the difference between a quick finish or a long, drawn-out fight.
Similarly, bettors should consider the history of each fighter’s weight class. Oftentimes, fighters will move up or down in weight classes depending on their success and the quality of their competition. This can lead to some fighters having a difficult time making weight for their fights. This can cause them to take extreme measures in order to make the cut, and it is important for bettors to note if a fighter is close to missing their weight class before a fight.
Bettors should also pay attention to a fighter’s history with injury. This can be especially important if they are coming off of a tough knockout loss. A KO defeat can leave fighters with a lasting mental trauma, and they may become overly cautious inside the octagon. This can also change their style and approach, and they can become a more passive opponent.
Lastly, bettors should look at the physical comparisons between each fighter before placing their bets. For instance, a fighter with longer reach can help them fend off initial attacks from their opponent and potentially clinch a decision early in the fight. On the other hand, a fighter with shorter reach could have difficulty getting past their opponent’s initial striking power and might lose early in the fight. Fortunately, online sportsbooks such as Fanatics offer a range of MMA betting markets and can be found on the UFC fight card under the “MMA” category. This makes it easy to place a bet from the comfort of home. However, be sure to check the odds daily as they can fluctuate due to popular betting action.