MMA betting is an exciting and potentially profitable way to place bets on mixed martial arts fights. However, like all types of sports bets, it is important to understand how MMA betting works before placing your first bet.
The most popular types of MMA bets are moneyline and over/under. These types of bets let you pick which fighter will win the match, as well as predict how long it will last. In addition to these, there are a variety of other prop bets that you can place on a fight.
Method of Victory
In MMA, a fight will usually end by knockout (KO), technical knockout (TKO), decision, or submission. These methods of victory are judged by three cage-side judges who score each round of the fight using a 10 point system. A KO is awarded when one fighter loses consciousness and the referee stops the fight, while a TKO is awarded when one fighter is unable to defend themselves due to strikes.
Knockouts and KO losses can have a damaging effect on a fighter’s mental state, causing them to change their approach in the octagon. This can result in them becoming more cautious and defensive, limiting their overall success inside the cage.
Weight Cuts and Weigh-ins
The weight cut for a MMA fight is usually scheduled the day before the fight. Those who miss the cut can go through a number of extreme measures to make it back up to their proper weight, including starving and dehydrating themselves. This is a common practice in the sport, and it can have a devastating effect on a fighter’s performance.
Over/Under Betting
MMA has a small number of rounds, so over/under betting can be an effective strategy. The oddsmakers will set the expected length of a fight, which is usually determined by a percentage of total rounds. Depending on the fighting style of the two competitors, over/under bets can be more profitable than moneyline bets.
Bonuses
Occasionally, MMA events offer bonuses to fans that bet on specific matches. These bonuses are often worth taking advantage of, especially if the fight is a big event.
Banking
Bettors should be sure to choose a reputable sportsbook that offers fast and easy withdrawals. It’s also a good idea to find out about the minimum deposit and maximum cashout limits before signing up for an account.
Betting sites typically offer a wide range of promotions and incentives for new and existing customers, and they can be a great source of extra cash when placing bets on MMA fights. Some even provide free bets as a welcome gift to new members.
In addition to these bonuses, a few betting sites offer MMA handicapping services and offer additional bets on specific factors that are relevant to the upcoming fight. These include the fighters’ weight classes, KO records, and their previous opponents.
MMA is a unique combat sport that has grown in popularity since its inception. It has a formal rulebook and a regulated, professional organization with a high level of media coverage and interest. In fact, MMA is the most widely watched sports event in the United States. This makes it an excellent choice for people who want to place their money on a sporting event without worrying about legal issues.