Mma betting has seen a big growth in recent years due to the many entertaining fighters and different fighting styles. While it can be difficult to accurately handicap a fight, doing your research and understanding a fighters strengths and weaknesses is essential for making profitable bets. One of the best ways to find value in a fight is by placing a bet on the underdog.
Another popular MMA betting option is to take the over/under for round totals. This bet type has nothing to do with who wins the fight, but rather how long the match will last. This is an especially good bet to place when you have two defensive fighters facing off, as they will tend to keep the fight close and could lead to a low score in favor of taking the under. However, if you have two aggressive fighters it will usually be much easier for them to get the job done and the over/under will likely win.
In MMA, there are three victory conditions: knockout, submission, and judge decision (score). A bet on a specific method of victory can pay off handsomely, as these bet types generally offer higher payouts than the moneyline. For example, if you bet $100 on Demetrious Johnson to win by a knockout and he does so, you will receive $120.
A key aspect of MMA betting is analyzing the fighters’ fighting styles, as well as their past record and current odds. This will give you a clearer picture of their chances of winning or losing the fight. It is also important to note that MMA fighters are divided into certain weight classes. Typically, a heavier fighter will have a lower chance of winning a fight, even if they are the favorite.
In addition to studying the fighters’ records and fighting styles, it is important to look at their stance. For instance, southpaw fighters often have a significant advantage against orthodox fighters due to their natural left-handedness. By analyzing a fighter’s stance, you will be better equipped to understand the matchup and make more informed decisions when betting on MMA.
Another important factor to consider when making MMA bets is how often the fighters have fought in a year. Typically, fighters who fight more frequently tend to be better prepared and able to adapt to the changing circumstances of each fight. They also have a greater opportunity to gain experience and improve their overall performance. This is a huge benefit for bettors as it can lead to more accurate handicapping and a higher potential payout on their bets. Lastly, it is important to consider the fighters’ ages when analyzing their matchups. Historically, when fighters are similar in age, the younger fighter has won 61% of the time. However, this is not always the case and older fighters can often hold their own against younger competitors.