The MMA fight sport has grown exponentially in recent years and while it has a long way to go before it rivals boxing’s popularity, MMA betting is becoming increasingly commonplace at sportsbooks across the country. While it is still a small portion of overall wagering, it does offer some great value for sports bettors who understand the nuances of the sport.
The first thing MMA bettors should know is that there are many different types of betting markets on UFC events. Unlike traditional sports betting, MMA fights aren’t based on point spreads but rather on the oddsmakers’ expectations of how the match will unfold. This makes it easier to win bets and provides a more accurate representation of the overall market.
When placing a bet on an MMA event, bettors must look at several factors, including the fighting styles and performance history of each competitor. This will help them determine the odds they should take on their selection. Additionally, bettors should consider the amount of action each fight is expected to have. In MMA, fighters can compete in three to five rounds of fighting. The longer the fight is, the more likely it will be that one fighter will lose due to a missed strike or a knockout.
A key part of MMA betting is analyzing the fighters’ striking abilities. This includes looking at the number of strikes landed, strikes absorbed, and accuracy rate. In general, fighters with better striking skills are able to beat their opponents 60% of the time.
Another important factor to consider when placing a bet is the method of victory. MMA fights can end in a variety of ways, including a knockout, submission, and judges’ decision. This type of bet requires a bettors to predict how a fight will end and is similar to an Over/Under in boxing.
Bettors should also look at the stance of each fighter, as a fighter’s stance will affect their ability to defend certain positions. For example, fighters who are left-handed often find themselves at an advantage when fighting against orthodox fighters. Additionally, it is important to understand how much a fighter’s weight class impacts their odds of winning a particular fight.
Lastly, bettors should pay close attention to the MMA rules and regulations when making their bets. It is easy to get swept up in the excitement of an event and place a bet without fully understanding the rules. This can be a costly mistake.
Finally, MMA bettors should look at the odds for each fight and compare them to other sports betting lines. Using this information can help bettors decide which wagers are the best value and how to manage their bankroll during an event. In addition, if the favorite gets off to a slow start, it is often an excellent opportunity for bettors to hedge their bets by putting money on the underdog. This strategy can be especially helpful if the favorite starts off poorly and receives heavy public money.