The best mma betting strategy involves careful research, smart bankroll management and a deep understanding of the sport and its fighters. In addition to moneyline bets and point spread bets, MMA wagering offers a variety of other types of betting markets. These include method of victory bets, round bets and other prop bets that allow players to make wagers on specific aspects of the fight.
The most popular type of MMA betting is on the outcome of a fight, but there are other wagers available as well. These include method of victory bets, which allow players to place a wager on whether the fighter will win by KO/TKO, decision or submission. These bets pay out according to the odds that are offered by the sportsbook.
Another common MMA betting market is on the number of rounds a fight will last. The sportsbook sets the Over/Under number and sets a price for each side of the bet. A higher number means the Over, while a lower number indicates the Under. Depending on the matchup, fighters’ styles and the number of rounds scheduled, this bet can have huge payouts for those who correctly predict how many rounds a fight will last.
When evaluating a fighter’s record, it is important to look at how they have performed against opponents of similar skill levels. This is important because a fighter with a great record against one type of opponent may not perform as well against another. For example, a striker with a strong takedown defense might struggle against a grappler who likes to take the fight to the ground.
In MMA betting, it is also helpful to look at the overall career record of fighters. This will give you an idea of how much experience a fighter has and can help you decide if they are a good bet against a younger opponent. In general, a younger fighter has a better chance of winning than an older one, as they are more energetic and fierce in the ring.
Many MMA bettors make the mistake of doing what is known as “MMA math.” They compare the records of two fighters and assume that because one has a better record than the other, they will win. This can be dangerous because it takes away from the more critical analysis of fighting styles and film study.
MMA bettors should also look at the number of takedowns each fighter has landed. This can be a strong indicator of how dominating a fighter is in the judges’ eyes. For example, a fighter who has landed 21 takedowns in a single fight will likely receive more points than someone who has only landed 5.
Lastly, bettors should consider the size of the cage when handicapping a fight. This is important because a smaller cage will lead to more exchanges and can be difficult for fighters who rely on quick attacks to win. Conversely, a larger cage can be beneficial for fighters who use grappling to dominate their opponents.