When betting on MMA fights, bettors should understand the rules of the sport, as well as the fighters’ skills, fighting styles, and performance history. They should also know that the best way to make money in this sport is to bet on underdogs. The odds of a fighter are displayed on a sportsbook’s odds board, and underdog fighters have a plus sign next to them while favorites have a minus sign. A bettor can also place a parlay bet, which is a wager that multiple events must happen for the bet to win.
Unlike many other forms of fighting, MMA matches are typically divided into men’s and women’s divisions spanning several weight classes. Each class lists a ranking of the top contenders, with the number one contender usually being considered the champion. Fighters compete in their respective classes regardless of their skill level, but some fighters are considered more suited to one division over another. This is especially true for fighters that have competed at a lower weight class and need to reclassify to a higher division before making a return.
In addition to MMA betting lines, sportsbooks offer Over/Under Rounds on each fight. These bets are based on how long the fight will last, and can be placed during live betting hours. This type of MMA betting market can be very volatile and should only be used by experienced MMA bettors.
The most common MMA betting line is the Money Line, which is a bet on which fighter will win the bout. It is important to research both fighters’ records and fighting style, as well as the matchup’s overall odds. In addition, bettors should also pay attention to a fighter’s stance, as a southpaw fighter can have an advantage if their opponent is an orthodox fighter.
A common mistake that new MMA bettors make is to simply compare the record of two fighters. This can mislead bettors into thinking that if FIGHTER A lost to FIGHTER B, then FIGHTER A should win. This thinking is flawed, and takes the focus away from studying fighter film and handicapping styles.
When placing MMA bets, it is important to remember that this sport involves a lot of risk. This is why it’s so important to do your research and analyze the big matchups. Betting blindly on your favorite fighter is a surefire way to see your bankroll go down quickly. If you want to win, then you need a solid game plan and the right strategy. Hopefully these tips will help you get off to a great start in MMA betting! Good luck!