MMA Betting Explained – Tips, Types of Bets & Strategies for New Punters

Mixed martial arts (MMA) betting is booming, and for good reason: the action is fast, the markets are exciting, and with a smart approach, there’s real value to be found. If you’re new to MMA or UFC betting, you don’t need to be an expert in fighting to get started. In this beginner-friendly guide, I’ll walk you through how MMA betting works, the main types of bets, key strategies, and common mistakes to avoid – all based on 20 years of professional sports betting experience.

Key Takeaways

• MMA betting is accessible to beginners: Simple bet types like “fight winner” are a great place to start.
• Understanding odds and markets is crucial: Each fight has multiple ways to bet, from outright winners to round betting and props.
• Smart bankroll management and research boost your chances: Don’t bet blindly – knowledge is your edge.

What is MMA Betting?

MMA betting is the practice of placing wagers on the outcome of mixed martial arts fights, including the UFC and other promotions. Unlike traditional team sports, MMA is head-to-head, with a single bout often determining the bet. The most popular MMA betting markets focus on the winner, the method of victory, and how long the fight will last.

Main Types of MMA Bets

Fight Winner (Moneyline)

The most common bet – simply pick which fighter will win.

For example, if you back Fighter A at odds of 2.00, a £10 bet returns £20 if they win.

Tip: Research each fighter’s recent form, style, and physical advantages before betting.

Method of Victory

Bet on how the fight will be won – by knockout (KO/TKO), submission, or decision.

• KO/TKO: The fight ends with one fighter stopped due to strikes.
• Submission: A fighter taps out or is rendered unconscious.
• Decision: The fight goes the distance and judges decide the winner.

Payouts are often higher here due to increased risk.

Round Betting

Wager on which round the fight will end, or whether it will go the distance.

Examples:

• Fighter A to win in Round 2
• Fight to go the distance (Yes/No)

Total Rounds (Over/Under)

Bet on how many rounds the fight will last.

Example: Over 1.5 rounds = the fight lasts at least into Round 2.

Prop Bets & Specials

Many sportsbooks offer extra markets like:

• Will the fight end in the first round?
• Will both fighters be knocked down?
• Will the fight be a split decision?

These bets can offer big returns, but are riskier and harder to predict.

How to Read MMA Odds

Odds in MMA are typically displayed in decimal (2.50), fractional (3/2), or moneyline (+150) formats.

• Lower odds = favourite, higher odds = underdog.
• Always compare odds across sportsbooks to get the best payout.

Example:

• Fighter A: 1.70 (favourite)
• Fighter B: 2.20 (underdog)

 A £10 bet on Fighter B returns £22 if they win.

Step-by-Step: How to Bet on MMA Online

Choose a reputable sportsbook - Pick a licensed, trusted betting site that offers MMA and UFC markets. Look for clear odds, responsible gambling tools, and good support.

1. Register and verify your account - Provide accurate details and complete ID checks (KYC) as required.
2. Deposit funds - Use a debit card or e-wallet – start with a small amount while learning.
3. Browse MMA events and markets - Find upcoming fights, review odds, and explore bet types.
4. Do your research - Check fighter records, recent performances, fighting styles, and weigh-in results. Don’t rely only on hype or social media.
5. Place your bet - Select your bet type, enter your stake, and confirm. Many sportsbooks offer “bet slip” features to track your wagers.
6. Watch the fight (optional) - Live betting is also available, letting you place bets as the action unfolds.

Beginner MMA Betting Strategies

• Focus on main markets: For new bettors, stick to fight winner or total rounds until you’re more comfortable.
• Study styles and matchups: Grappler vs. striker? Southpaw vs. orthodox? Styles can decide fights.
• Check recent form: Fighters on winning/losing streaks, changes in training camps, and late-notice replacements can all impact outcomes.
• Bankroll management: Set a budget and don’t chase losses. Smart money management is the foundation of long-term betting success.
• Avoid betting every fight: Only wager when you have a genuine edge or insight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Chasing high odds only for the payout: Underdogs win sometimes, but the favourite is favourite for a reason.
• Ignoring weight cuts and injuries: Fighters missing weight or coming off an injury may perform worse.
• Not shopping for the best odds: Odds can vary between sportsbooks – even a small difference adds up over time.
• Betting with emotion: Don’t bet just because you’re a fan of a fighter; look for value and facts.

Where to Bet: Top MMA Betting Sites for 2025

Here are the most trusted, beginner-friendly betting sites for MMA:

• bet365: Huge range of UFC/MMA markets, live streaming, cash-out, and in-depth stats.
• Betway: Beginner-friendly site and app, competitive odds, fast payouts.
• Unibet: Clear bet slips, lots of prop bets, strong support and tutorials.
• FanDuel (USA): Leading option for American punters, easy navigation, live betting.
• 888sport: Good odds, risk-free bet offers for new customers.

How to Use OddsPortal for MMA Betting

OddsPortal is a powerful companion for any MMA bettor. Here’s how you can use it to gain an edge:

• Live Results and Updates: Track UFC, Bellator, and other major MMA events in real time, including round-by-round scoring, fight statistics, and event schedules.
• Custom Notifications: Set alerts for upcoming bouts, round starts, or fight results so you never miss an important update.
• Odds Comparison: OddsPortal displays the best odds from multiple bookmakers after comparisons, helping you spot value bets.
• Historical Data: Review previous fight outcomes to spot trends and patterns useful for strategy.
• Tip: Use OddsPortal during fight night to monitor undercard results, last-minute injuries, or changes in the line-up—crucial info for live betting and prop bets.

Sign up with OddsPortal for free using the desktop site, or through your mobile device on your chosen browser.

Conclusion

MMA betting is one of the most exciting ways to experience fight sports, whether you’re following the UFC or smaller promotions. By starting with simple bet types, learning how odds work, and sticking to basic strategies, even beginners can find success and enjoy the action.

Always use reputable sportsbooks, set a budget, and remember: betting should enhance your enjoyment of the sport, not cause stress.