How to Bet on Boxing Matches

So you want to bet on boxing? Good! Unlike many other sports, boxing doesn't adhere to a specific season or feature a postseason; instead, boxing matches typically take place on weekends, so you can bet on boxing while betting on other major sports like football and hockey.

How to bet on boxing: lines and odds

There are a few betting concepts you need to understand before you bet on a boxing match.

Totals

In case you haven't come across over/under betting before, here is a quick summary. 

Totals (which is another for over/under) represent the total number of rounds the sportsbooks thing will be scored in the fight. So, as a bettor, you can decide whether the combined score will go "over" or "under" that projected number. 

Makes sense? 

To give you an example, if the projected total for a fight is set at 8.5 rounds, any outcome with a round of 9 or higher would constitute the "OVER," while 8.5 or less would classify as the "UNDER." Typically, these bets come with -110 odds, reflecting the sportsbook's commission. You'd need to wager $110 to earn $100.

Here is a video explaining this in a little more detail: 

Moneyline bets

When you make a moneyline bet you're betting on whoever will win the fight. In boxing, you might see odds like Anthony Joshua -200 and Tyson Fury +175. These odds represent the potential payout for each boxer should he win.

In this example, Joshua is the favorite at -200, and you'd have to bet $200 to earn $100 if he wins. Fury, is the underdog at +175 and you'd need to bet $100 to profit $175 if he wins.

Here is a video we made for those of us who don't want to read :-)

Now, let's talk about the odds for a minute. 

In boxing, three odds formats are typically used: American, Decimal, and Fractional:

• American odds: American odds are easy to recognize as they have a plus (+) or minus (-) sign before them, like +125 or -125 (called, as mentioned, the moneyline)
• Fractional odds: Fractional odds are expressed as fractions. Multiply the fraction by your bet amount to calculate potential profits
• Decimal odds: Decimal odds reflect the total amount you would receive, including your original bet, for each unit wagered. For instance, 2.25 would signify a return of $2.25 for every $1 bet, while 3.35 corresponds to a $3.35 return for each $1 wagered.

Popular boxing betting types

Here are some other popular boxing bets you can make: 

• Match props
• Parlays
• Teasers

Let's look at each in some more detail.

Match props

With props you bet on things that will happen during the fight, or on something related to one of the fighter's performances. 

Say, for example, if two boxers like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury are going head-to-head, you could make one of the following prop bets

• Anthony Joshua Over/Under 3.5 knockdowns
• Fight to end by knockout - Yes/No

Parlays and teasers

Parlay bets are a combination of many bets in one, and these are popular because, if you win your bets you get a high payout because of the high odds. The thing to remember is that every bet within the parlay must hit for you to win. 

Teaser bets are bets where you can adjust point spreads or totals in your favor. For example, if a boxer is favored at -3 rounds, and the total rounds are set at 4.5, you can adjust these numbers by buying points to better your odds. As with parlays, both bets must hit for you to win.

Live betting

Live betting is when you bet on things that happen as you are watching the fight: you actually bet after the fight has already started. 

There are a bunch of in-fight scenarios, such as the result at the end of a round, half, or the entire match. You can also bet on total points during specific rounds or predict upcoming actions. 

Boxing betting tips

Here are a few tips that will help you improve your boxing betting skills.

Do your homework

First, analyze the boxers' trainers and try to get their strategic thinking. Look for recurring patterns or tendencies that could give you an edge.

Second, look at the boxers. What are their strengths and weaknesses? How have they performed in the last few matches? Analyze their historical matchups and make a note of the opponents they excel against and where they may encounter difficulties. 

Third, pay close attention to recent activity in the ring and look at the boxers' current form. Are they fielding their top athletes, or is a key boxer resting due to recent exertion? 

The crux of the matter is this: research both the boxers and their opponents. Read articles, follow social media updates, watch fights firsthand, and listen to insights from experts. 

Now, if you really want to go all-in on the analytical part, you can gather data of recently matches and put them all in a table, then look to see if you see anything that stands out. 

Below is an example using a comprehensive comparison between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury leading up to their recent bout on December 21, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Usyk won by unanimous decision:

The more you know the better your bets will be.

Next, let's talk about how you best manage your betting fund.

Manage your bankroll

Effective bankroll management is important for all forms of sports betting, and boxing is no different. Approach your bankroll with care and develop a sound plan before you commence betting. 

This goes without saying: Stick to this plan diligently.

Betting on boxing should not be seen as a get-rich-quick scheme. While the potential for significant profits exists, it's just as easy to deplete your funds quickly if you're not careful. 

This tip may seem obvious but know that you don’t have to wager on every fight or every day. 

• Avoid emotional betting. Although you may have a favorite boxer, refrain from placing bets based on personal bias or a desire for them to win. Emotional bets are not conducive to long-term success in boxing betting—or any other form of betting, for that matter.
• Don't chase losses. If you lose a bet - and we all do - accept it as part of the betting journey and move forward. Doubling your wagers to recoup losses is a risky strategy.
• Track your bets. Maintain detailed records of all your bets, including the amount, timing, and the boxers involved. Paying close attention to your betting records will make you a better bettor long-term. Make a habit of looking at your betting patterns, your strengths, and the areas that may require adjustment. Doing this will enhance your overall boxing betting strategy.

Start slow

Start conservatively as a new bettor. If you’re new to betting on boxing go easy in the beginning and make small bets. Gain some experience gradually and build your bankroll. 

As your confidence and knowledge grow, consider adjusting your bet sizes accordingly. 

Best online sportsbooks for betting on boxing

Below is a list of sportsbooks you can sign up with and bet on boxing matches.