MMA betting is an exciting way to make money by placing wagers on the outcome of a fight. It requires a bit of research and knowledge, but the rewards are well worth it. To place a bet, you should find a reputable online sportsbook that offers competitive odds and incentives for new players. It is important to remember that MMA betting is inherently risky, and you should never bet more than you can afford to lose. Disciplined betting is essential, and you should set a budget for yourself and stick to it. You should also avoid making emotional decisions based on your feelings about a fighter or their past victories. Betting on a favourite without scrutinising the odds is a recipe for disaster and can lead to huge losses.
There are many ways to bet on MMA, including the outright winner market, total rounds, and method of victory. The outright winner market is an excellent option for those who want to predict the finish of a fight and get paid regardless of how the fight ends. This market is available for every UFC fight, as well as the prelims and main cards of Bellator events. The total rounds market is another good option for MMA betting, and punters can place their bets in-play or through live betting.
To handicap a fight, you should consider each fighter’s stance, style, and strength. In addition, you should look at their fighting history and how they match up against the opponent’s style. You should also pay attention to their weight cuts and how they can impact their performance in the ring. For example, a fighter who has to cut for a fight can suffer from dehydration and starvation, and this could have a negative effect on their performance.
It is also important to follow a fighter’s camp and watch their training videos. This will give you insights into their upcoming fight and their preparation. For example, you might notice if they are losing weight too quickly or if they have been injured during their camp. You can also see how they perform at various locations, as travel can wreak havoc on a fighter’s energy levels. For instance, Fabricio Werdum tapped out a gassed-out Cain Velasquez at UFC 188 in Mexico City because Velasquez turned up at the high altitude without having acclimatised.
The most popular mma betting site is Bovada, which has an extensive list of available markets and features an easy-to-use interface. Moreover, it has a variety of welcome promotions and loyalty offers for new customers. Moreover, the odds on this website are higher than those of other online bookmakers. You can also use a free account to practice before you start betting real money. However, you should be aware that the odds on a specific fight can change as the fight progresses. In addition, you should make sure to place your bets with a reputable online sportsbook, as low-rated sites will negatively impact your profitability over time.