Two men practicing their boxing skills

11 Mar 2024

How does betting on MMA work? A beginner’s guide

Share this

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a high-octane sport that seamlessly blends striking and grappling techniques from a diverse range of martial arts. As its popularity continues to surge across Latin America and the world, so does the interest in betting on mixed martial arts.

For fans who understand the nuances of a spinning back fist or a triangle choke, MMA betting offers a thrilling way to engage with the sport.

To make the most of this growing trend and elevate your experience, having a digital wallet like Skrill is equally important. This guide is designed to bridge the adrenaline-filled world of the octagon with the strategic arena of sports betting.

The basics of MMA sports betting

At the heart of betting on mixed martial arts is the simple question: who will win?

However, MMA betting is far more than just picking winners. Understanding the types of bets available on mixed martial arts is the first step towards informed betting.

Here are three types of bet you need to know:

Man training with a boxing instructor at the gym
  • Money Line: This is the most straightforward MMA bet. Here, you are simply placing a bet on who you think will win the fight. Each fighter is assigned odds that determine your potential payout.
  • Prop bets: These are bets on specific outcomes within a fight. Examples include betting on how the fight will end (submission, knockout, decision) or which round it will end in.
  • Parlay bets: Parlays involve combining multiple bets into a single wager. The potential payout is higher, but all selections in the parlay must win for you to be paid.

Strategies for MMA betting

Succeeding in MMA betting doesn’t have to be a shot in the dark; it can be approached with strategy and thoughtful analysis. It’s not just about favouring the fighter with the louder entrance music; it’s about making calculated decisions based on data and observations.

Fighter research and analysis: Delve deep into fighters’ histories, styles, and recent performances. Consider factors like their ground game, striking ability, stamina, and how they fare under pressure. Look at their records against fighters with similar styles.

Assess weight cut and physical condition: Examine how fighters manage their intentional weight loss, commonly known as weight cuts, prior to the weigh-ins. Poorly managed weight cuts can lead to issues like dehydration and reduced stamina, which can impact their performance in the fight. It’s also important to evaluate a fighter’s physical condition during the weigh-ins for additional insights.

Study the venue and location: Some fighters perform better in certain environments, whether it be a smaller or larger octagon, or at specific locations due to travel, jet lag, or home-field advantage.

Disciplined betting: Set a budget and keep to it. Betting in mixed martial arts should be an entertaining activity, so don’t spend more than you can afford to lose. 

Avoid emotional betting: Make decisions grounded in facts and analysis, not personal bias or sentiment. Betting on a favourite fighter without scrutinising the odds can set the stage for losses.

Remember, betting on mixed martial arts is inherently risky, and there are no guaranteed profits. It’s about using your knowledge of the sport to try and gain an edge, all while understanding and accepting the risks involved.

Person viewing a betting site on their tablet

Where and how to place MMA bets

Getting into mixed martial arts betting requires a platform to place those bets. The online world is teeming with options, but not all are created equal.

Opting for a reputable, well-regulated betting site is crucial. Look for sites that clearly display their licensing information and have positive user reviews.

In addition, check for payment options that suit your needs, such as Skrill, which is a popular choice for sports bettors.

Three things to check when choosing a betting site:

  • Check licensing and regulation: Ensure the betting site is licensed by a recognised authority.
  • Read user reviews: Seek out feedback from other bettors to gauge the reputation of the site.
  • Consider payment options: Identify the methods available for deposits and withdrawals, and consider using a Skrill wallet.

The Skrill wallet: A smart choice for managing your funds

In the dynamic world of MMA betting, quick and easy transactions are paramount. This is where a Skrill account can help.

With a Skrill wallet, you can make fast deposits and withdrawals at selected sportsbooks without entering personal information or card details.

Open a Skrill account

Here are four good reasons to use Skrill:

Speed and convenience: Skrill lets you easily move your money to and from selected sportsbooks while keeping your betting funds separate from your main bank account.

Acceptance: Skrill is accepted on most betting sites, so you’re free to look around for the best odds.

Person opening the Skrill mobile app on their phone while watching TV

Privacy: With Skrill, all you need to move money is your account login, so there’s no need to share personal information and card numbers.

Exclusive rewards: The Skrill wallet gives you access to exclusive rewards such as:

In the adrenaline-fueled arena of MMA betting, it’s essential to maintain a level head. Betting in mixed martial arts should be an engaging way to enjoy the sport, not a path to financial worry.

Always set a budget and keep to it. Don’t chase losses and recognise when to step back and take a break.

Here are three tips for safer gambling:

  • Set a betting budget: Decide in advance how much you’re willing to wager and never exceed this amount.
  • Don’t chase losses: If you’re on a losing streak, don’t bet more to try to recoup your losses.
  • Know when to step back: Recognise the signs of problem gambling and seek help if needed.

In summary, bets on mixed martial arts can add an interesting dimension for fans of this vibrant sport. And when approached with caution and strategy, coupled with the convenience of using a Skrill wallet, it can elevate your experience.

Open a Skrill account

Back to news