MMA is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and has overtaken boxing as the most popular combat sport. While betting on MMA fights has not always been easy, the rise of online MMA betting and increased competition among sportsbooks have helped make it easier than ever to place wagers on the sport. However, there are still a few things to keep in mind before placing your first MMA wager.

Moneyline Bets

Just like in boxing, MMA fighters are grouped into different weight classes and the odds for each fighter reflect how likely a bookmaker believes that fighter is to win. Favorites are listed with a plus sign while underdogs are given a minus sign. A fighter’s odds are based on their performance in past fights and their ability to beat the other competitor on that night. A fighter’s overall record is also taken into consideration, but this can be misleading as it can be difficult to compare the records of opponents who compete in different weight classes.

Method of Victory Bets

In addition to traditional moneyline bets, MMA wagering offers a number of other markets including the Over/Under Rounds and Method of Victory wagers. The Over/Under rounds market reflects how many total rounds the fight will last, while the Method of Victory bet outlines the specific way in which a fighter is expected to win. A KO or TKO victory will usually yield higher payouts than a decision, although the latter is more common in the lighter divisions.

When making Method of Victory wagers, it’s important to consider a fighter’s previous performances in the weight class in which they are competing. Fighters often move up or down in weight depending on their performance and this can affect their abilities. In some cases, a fighter who loses by KO can become damaged psychologically after such a devastating loss, resulting in them being less effective inside the octagon.

Another factor to consider when placing a Method of Victory bet is how long a fighter can last in the fight. This is especially relevant for fighters who compete in the heavyweight and light heavyweight classes where a knockout loss can have a significant impact on their performance in future fights.

Finally, it’s worth noting that MMA betting markets often include prop bets. These bets are placed on the specific events that will occur during a fight and can range from who will score the first knockdown to whether or not the fighters will touch gloves before the fight begins. These bets typically have a lower payout than standard bets but can add some excitement to your MMA wagering experience. Parlaying multiple prop bets can significantly increase your profits, but it’s also worth remembering that they carry more risk than individual bets.