MMA betting is a fun way to make wagers on the sport of mixed martial arts. It involves a variety of wager types, including the moneyline, over/under rounds, method of victory and futures. While there are no guarantees when it comes to placing MMA wagers, doing your research and managing your bankroll can improve your chances of winning.

The most basic MMA bet is the moneyline, which offers odds on which fighter will win the fight. Odds are displayed in a percentage format, with the favorite showing up as a negative number and the underdog appearing as a positive number. In general, the higher the number, the more likely you are to win a bet on a particular fighter. Odds are calculated by sports statisticians and mathematicians, who use a wide range of factors to calculate a fighter’s odds, including the fighter’s past performance, injuries, current form, weather forecasts, and their opponents’ styles and strengths.

Over/Under rounds is another simple MMA betting option that requires little more than knowing the length of a particular fight. Sportsbooks will set a total number of rounds, and bettors can place a wager on whether the fight will end longer (over) or shorter (under) than that amount. For a more nuanced bet, you can also place a wager on the Method of Victory, which predicts whether a fighter will win via knockout, submission, or decision.

Prop bets and parlays (accumulators) are other popular MMA betting options. These bets often have a higher payout than individual bets on specific fighters, but they also carry greater risk. To make the most informed decisions when placing these wagers, be sure to take into account a fighter’s weight class, as well as their previous performances in that category.

Mma betting is a dangerous game, and it’s important to be aware of the risks involved before making any bets. It’s also essential to maintain a healthy gambling mindset and recognise when you’re getting out of control. Set a budget before you start betting, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Don’t chase your losses, and don’t be afraid to walk away from the table if you’re losing.

It’s also a good idea to check out each fighter’s medical records and training camp history before placing any bets on upcoming fights. Many fighters struggle to make their weight classes, and last-minute weight cuts can leave them drained for the fight. In addition, some fighters are better at striking than grappling, so a bet on a striker versus a grappler may prove profitable. Finally, be sure to watch the fighters’ weigh-ins to determine how close they are to their fighting weight. This can affect how the judges score a fight. Ultimately, it’s up to the referee to decide which fighter is the winner.