Getting the Odds Right in MMA Betting

MMA has seen explosive growth over the past decade and the sport attracts big money at the betting windows. This popularity means that sportsbook sharps are trying to find ways to capture the action and make some money off MMA betting.

Getting the odds right is crucial for winning MMA bets. Understanding how the odds are set and how to shop them can mean the difference between a profitable night and a loss.

Moneyline odds are based on a fighter’s current record against their opponents and are the primary bet type for most MMA bettors. These odds are the best way to get a sense of the strength of a fight and determine which fighters to back or lay against.

The odds for a particular match are determined by a variety of factors, including the weight class and opponent of each fighter, but the most common factor is their past record against other competitors in that weight class. This can be a great way to help predict which fighters will win, but it can also be misleading and can lead a bettor to focus on their own opinions and biases rather than studying the fight film and handicapping styles of each fighter.

Over/Under bets are a popular MMA betting type that can be a little confusing at first. These bets are similar to those found in football, basketball, or baseball, with the main difference being that the length of the fight is a factor instead of the number of points scored.

In a typical fight between two MMA champions, there is a favorite and an underdog. The underdog will often have a higher plus sign, meaning they have better odds against victory than the favorite. The underdog in the Ferguson-Kyle example is +230, meaning that you would need to bet $100 on the underdog to win $230.

When betting on MMA, bettors should always shop around for the best price. These differences may seem small, but they add up in the long run, and can be worth the extra effort.

There are also many different MMA prop bets that can be placed, including bets on whether a fighter will submit or win by knockout in a given round. These types of MMA bets are more precise than the moneyline or over/under, and can provide a bigger payout if your pick is correct.

Younger Fighters Have an Advantage

One of the most important aspects of MMA betting is picking fighters with an edge in their age group. This is because younger fighters are more likely to have the experience and wisdom that can help them win.

Another factor to consider is if a fighter has recently lost a bout. This can have a negative effect on their mental state and can change their approach in the ring.

Knockout losses can be particularly devastating for a fighter, and it can cause them to lose their confidence in the octagon. This can make them more cautious and less likely to throw in a big punch.