Mma betting is a popular way to wager on the sport, but it can be risky. Prop bets, which are wagers on specific occurrences during the fight that do not impact its outcome, have a higher house edge than regular bets. They also require research and analysis to calculate your potential winnings. The more you understand about the sport and its rules, the better your chances of making smart bets.
There are many different types of MMA bets, but the most common is the moneyline bet on who will win a particular fight. Moneylines are expressed in positive and negative values, with negative values indicating that the fighter is expected to win and positive ones implying that the fighter is the underdog. You can also make a method of victory bet, which is defined as either a technical draw (both judges score the fighters evenly), a split decision, or a unanimous decision. You can even place a round bet, where you predict the exact round that a fight will end in. Parlays, which combine multiple bets for a larger payout, are available as well.
Regardless of which bet type you choose, it is important to study the fighters and their past fights. Look at their style, records, recent performances, and injuries. You should also pay close attention to a fighter’s camp, as knowledge of their training can reveal a lot about their fighting abilities. For example, if a fighter has struggled to make weight for the fight, it could indicate that they will be tired or weaker in the ring.
The best time to place a bet on an upcoming MMA fight is while it is still in progress, as odds are always changing based on the public’s sentiment and any new information about the matchup. It’s also a good idea to bookmark the MMA sections of your favorite sportsbooks and check them daily so you can keep up with the odds as they change.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider futures and live bets when placing your MMA bets. While these types of bets have higher stakes than normal bets, they can provide big paydays if you’re right. For example, you can place a future bet on whether or not a particular fighter will attempt a submission maneuver in the fight.
Similarly, you can also place a live bet on the event itself, which is a bet placed on an actual fight in progress. These bets are typically lower than outright bets, and they have a higher return-to-player percentage. However, a bet on a live event should only be made if you’re confident in your ability to predict the outcome of the fight. Otherwise, you may lose your money. Moreover, live betting offers a much more exciting and interactive experience than pre-fight bets. This makes it a great option for new bettors who are looking to get into the game. It’s also a good way to learn the ropes and practice your strategy before placing a real bet.