When betting on MMA fights, it is important to research the fighters and their opponents. Using stats and fight film to assess each fighter’s strengths and weaknesses can lead to informed wagering decisions. This can help bettors make smarter choices about who to back and improve their chances of winning.
A fighter’s record is a key factor to consider when placing a bet. A fighter’s overall record in the sport, as well as their win-loss record against certain opponents, can influence how likely a bookmaker is to assign them a positive or negative odds percentage. A fighter’s record in the same weight class can also be a factor. It is important to note that some fighters may move up or down in their respective weight classes based on competition and their ability to cut weight.
Prop betting is a popular way to bet on MMA fights, and it can offer a much higher payout than traditional moneyline wagers. Depending on the type of prop, bettors can place bets on how a specific fight will end (such as by KO or TKO, submission, or points), or they can bet on how many rounds the fight will last. Props can be placed both pre-event and during live betting at online sportsbooks.
The odds for a given fight are calculated by the oddsmakers at the sportsbook, and can be found on the fight page. A fighter’s odds are represented by plus and minus signs, similar to other sports, and the larger the number, the more likely the fighter is to win. The odds for the underdog are generally lower than those of the favorite, and this can reflect a number of factors, including recent form, fighting style, and divisional ranking.
While some MMA betting experts recommend sticking to basic moneyline bets, it is crucial for any bettors to do their research before making a bet. A comprehensive MMA betting strategy includes researching statistics such as strike landed, strikes absorbed, and takedown defense. It is also essential to study fight film and pay close attention to a fighter’s recent record in the same weight class.
It is also a good idea to set a budget before betting on MMA fights. This will ensure that you are not gambling beyond your means and can protect yourself from getting into debt. In addition, it is important to avoid chasing losses.
Many MMA matches feature late substitutions, and when this happens, the replacement fighter has less than a month to prepare. Statistically, these replacement fighters lose 64% of the time. Hence, supporting the underdog is a better long-term strategy than backing the favored fighter every time. This is because favorites must win more than half of their fights to break even, and the majority of their victories are easy. Moreover, it is not uncommon for a replacement to have a better record than the original fighter who withdrew from the match. Therefore, it is advisable to bet on underdogs in a majority of MMA bouts.