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Mixed martial arts, or MMA, has exploded into a worldwide phenomenon since the UFC first debuted in 1993. The sport now combines professional athletes, mainstream media coverage, and a formal rulebook. The popularity of MMA has also helped to grow legal sports betting in the United States.
MMA betting is available at more sportsbooks than ever before. This is especially true of the many new, regulated online sportsbooks in the United States. However, not all of them offer the same odds on a particular fighter or fight.
Bettors should always shop around for the best price when placing a bet on an MMA event. Even the smallest difference in price can add up quickly.
Moneyline bets on the outcome of a fight are the most common type of wager, and they work like those in football or basketball. The winner of the matchup will be favored by a set amount, while the loser will be a negative number. Often, the odds will be based on the fighters’ respective strengths and weaknesses.
Over/under bets on the total number of rounds a fight will last are another popular MMA wager type. These bets can be very similar to those in football, basketball, or baseball.
In MMA, there are three victory conditions: knockout, submission, and judges’ decision (score). You can place bets on each of these types of victories in a single bet or as a parlay.
A parlay bet is a bet that requires you to pick multiple fight outcomes correctly in order to win the entire wager. It’s a riskier bet but offers more payouts than other types of MMA wagers.
MMA betting odds are influenced by a variety of factors, including the age and skill level of the fighters. For example, if a younger fighter has been in the UFC for less than a year, they are likely to be a favorite. This is because a younger fighter has less experience than an older fighter, so their chances of winning are higher.
The weight of a fighter is also a factor in MMA betting. The UFC has multiple weight classes, and fighters can easily move up or down in class depending on their success. Those who struggle to make weight may find it more difficult to compete with a larger opponent.
Late weight cuts are a major concern for MMA bettors because they can leave a fighter drained and unable to perform at their best. Some fighters will take extreme measures to ensure they don’t miss the cut, such as starving themselves or dehydrating themselves.
Knockout losses can also have a significant impact on a fighter’s approach inside the octagon, making them more cautious. This can result in a lower strike rate and a decreased ability to attack.
Betting on MMA is a fun way to enjoy a high-action, live event. It can be a great way to win money or make a few bucks, but it’s important to know your limits before you start betting. It’s also essential to choose a reputable sportsbook that offers safe and secure banking options.
