Types of Round Bets in Boxing
Round betting in boxing offers a variety of exciting options for sports betting enthusiasts. One can choose to bet on the exact round a fight will end, a group of rounds, or whether the fight will go over or under a set number of rounds. Each type of bet presents a different level of risk and reward, appealing to both cautious and daring boxing betting enthusiasts.
For those who believe they can pinpoint the precise moment a fight will conclude, betting on the exact round offers the highest payout potential, as evidenced by many positive reviews from seasoned bettors. On the other hand, betting on a group of rounds provides a wider margin for error and a lower payout, appealing to those who prefer a less risky approach. Here are the types of round bets in boxing.
| Bet Type | How Does It Work? | Risk Level | Payout Potential | Example |
| Exact Round | Bettor predicts the specific round in which the fight will end. | High | High | Fighter A to win in round 5. |
| Round Group | Bettor predicts the fight will end within a specified group of rounds (e.g., rounds 1-3). | Medium | Medium | Fighter B to win in rounds 4-6. |
| Over/Under Rounds | You predict whether the boxing match will last more or fewer rounds than a specific set number. | Medium | Medium | Over 9.5 rounds (fight lasts 10 rounds or more) |
| Fight Goes the Distance | You predict the fight will last the full scheduled number of rounds (usually 10 or 12). | Low | Low | The fight ends in a decision after 12 rounds. |
How Do Round Betting Odds Work?
Round betting odds, like most sports betting odds, are typically displayed in two formats: American (+) or decimal.
American Odds (+/-)
A positive (+) number (e.g., +500) indicates your potential return on a $100 bet. A $100 bet at +500 odds would win you $500 in this case. A negative (-) number (e.g., -200) indicates how much you need to bet to win $100. So, a $200 bet at -200 odds would win you $100.
Decimal Odds
These odds represent the total amount you would receive back for every $1 you bet, including your original stake. For example, odds of 5.00 mean you would get $5 back for every $1 bet. Let’s say you place a $10 bet on Canelo Alvarez winning by KO in round 4 at 5.00 odds. If he wins by KO in round 4, you will win $50 (your original $10 stake + $40 profit).
What Influences Round Betting Odds?
Several factors contribute to the calculation of round betting odds, making them unique compared to other sports like MMA, martial arts, football, and horse racing:
- Fighters’ Styles
- Fight History
- Opponent’s Style and History
- Public Opinion
Fighters’ Styles
A fighter known for their punching power and ability to finish fights with one big punch will likely have lower odds of winning in earlier rounds (e.g., rounds 1-2). For example, if Mike Tyson were in his prime, a bet on him winning by KO in round 1 would have much lower odds than winning by KO in round 8.
On the other hand, a fighter who relies on footwork, jabs, and building points throughout the fight might have higher odds of winning in later rounds (e.g., rounds 8-12) or by decision (which goes all rounds).
For instance, Floyd Mayweather Jr., known for his defensive strength and counter-punching, might have lower odds of winning by KO in round 1 but higher odds of winning on points after 12 rounds.
Fight History
A fighter’s past performances are a strong indicator of their future tendencies. Here is how fight history can impact round betting odds: A fighter with a high knockout ratio (percentage of wins by KO/TKO) suggests they have a strong chance of ending fights early.
So, this would lower the odds of them winning by KO/TKO in the earlier rounds. For example, a fighter with a 70% KO ratio would likely have lower odds of winning by KO in round 1 than a fighter with a 20% KO ratio.
Stoppage History is another factor. Looking at a fighter’s history of TKO (technical knockout) stoppages by the referee or corner retirement can also be informative. If a fighter has a history of fading or being susceptible to cuts, they might have higher odds of being stopped in later rounds.
Opponent’s Style and History
Just like a fighter’s own style and history, the opponent’s characteristics significantly influence round betting odds. When a powerful puncher faces a fragile opponent, the odds for the KO are lower in earlier rounds compared to a matchup between two skilled boxers who prefer to fight on points.
Public Opinion
Sometimes, a popular fighter or a particularly exciting matchup might attract a lot of bets on a specific round (e.g., everyone expects a knockout in round 3). This can cause sportsbooks to adjust the odds for that round upwards to balance their liability (potential losses) if that outcome occurs.
Final Words About Round Betting in Boxing
Round betting in boxing involves wagering on the round where the fight ends. There are several types of round bets, each with varying risk and reward levels. Odds for these bets are influenced by fighters’ styles, fight history, opponents’ styles and history, and public opinion.
