What Is a Reverse Bet?
A reverse bet is a special form of betting. In a reverse bet, one bet links to the next. You start with one bet. If that bet wins or pushes, you then place another bet. You connect two or more bets this way. Reverse bets let you cover more outcomes. Unlike a parlay, not all bets must win for you to get a payout.
A reverse bet works with two or more selections. Each extra selection makes new bets. The final payout depends on the order you pick your bets.
Types of Reverse Bets
• Win Reverse Bet: The next bet comes in only if the first bet wins outright.
• Action Reverse Bet: The next bet comes in if the first bet either wins or pushes.
How Reverse Bets Work
Start with a bet on a first team or outcome. If that bet wins, the payout moves to the next bet. For example, you stake $50 on Team A. When Team A wins, you use the payout for a bet on Team B. If Team B loses, the chain ends. Each bet connects to the next one in a clear chain. This chain depends on the order you choose. If the first bet fails, the chain stops.
As you add more teams, the number of bets grows fast. Three selections might form six bets. Five selections might form 20 bets. Each extra selection adds more risk and more links in the chain.
Examples in Popular Sports
• NFL: You might bet on one team to win. A second bet may follow on a different NFL team. The chain will end if one bet loses.
• NBA: You might pick the Knicks followed by another team. The order you choose can change the result.
• MLB & NHL: The same idea works for baseball and hockey. Each game adds a connected bet.
Pros and Cons of Reverse Bets
Pros:
• You have a way to gain back some money even if not all picks win.
• You get more action with linked bets.
• The chain offers a clear view of how your bets connect.
Cons:
• It takes learning to see how the chain works.
• Adding bets multiplies the total stake.
• A wrong order may cancel all bets early.
Placing a Reverse Bet
Most sites let you pick reverse bets with a simple bet slip. You select your games and then choose the reverse bet option. The slip shows risk and payout numbers for you to view before you confirm your bet. If a game cancels or pushes, some bets may change or cancel. The site may refund your stake or adjust the bet to a single wager.
Licensing, Age, and Responsible Gambling
Reverse bets work in markets that allow sports betting. You must be 21 or older in most cases. Licensed sportsbooks show clear age rules and give advice on safe betting. Always set a budget and use calculators to check risk. If betting stops being fun, get help.
Reverse bets offer a flexible path instead of the strict chain of parlays. They tie bets closely so that each win feeds the next bet. Use this guide to build your chain with care and clear links. Always remember to bet with caution and within your means.