Betting on MMA fights can be exciting and lucrative, but only if you know how to make informed wagers. Successful MMA betting involves researching fighters’ skills, fighting styles, records, recent performance, and even injuries. It also requires watching old fights to help understand how fighters are matched against each other and determining what type of bet is best for the situation. You can also place prop bets and parlays, which offer higher payouts when multiple bets are combined.
The most basic MMA bet is the moneyline, which is an outright bet on who will win a specific fight. Usually, this bet includes both an underdog and a favorite with odds that reflect their respective probabilities of winning. A favorite will have a plus symbol in front of their odds, while an underdog will have a minus symbol in front of theirs. Moneyline odds are always changing as the fight draws closer, so be sure to pay close attention to them as they change.
Another popular MMA bet is on method of victory, which involves choosing how a fighter will win a particular match. Typically, this is done by choosing between knockout or submission. You can also bet on a round of the fight, which is usually based on the first scorecard from one of the judges. Some sportsbooks also allow you to place a bet on how the final decision will be announced, which is a popular option for those who want to get more involved in a fight.
Futures bets are a great way to predict what will happen in upcoming fights. These bets are placed long before the fight takes place and can give you a good idea of which fighter might win, but the odds are not guaranteed. This is because live odds are determined by algorithms and traders, which fail to consider technical aspects of a match that keen MMA bettors can spot.
During a fight, you can also bet on how long a specific fight will last and which fighter will land the first punch. This is called in-play betting, and it can be a thrilling experience for fight fans. However, it is important to remember that you should never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Lastly, a common mistake made by many MMA bettors is picking a bet with their heart instead of research. This is often the quickest way to lose money. You should always take the time to study a fight card, including fighters’ records, style, and training camps. In addition, it is important to keep in mind that all bets are subject to a house edge. Fortunately, you can decrease this house edge by making smart bets and managing your bankroll well. By following these tips, you can be on your way to becoming a successful MMA bettor.