MMA betting can be an exciting and lucrative way to engage with the sport. The key to success is making informed decisions and practicing responsible wagering. This article will discuss the different types of MMA betting and how to make the most of your wagers. It will also cover tips on how to research fighters and their history. Finally, it will offer advice on how to manage your bankroll.

The first step in MMA betting is understanding how to read the odds. Betting odds showcase how much a bettor can win for their wagers, in dollars per $100 wagered. Odds will shift from the moment they open up until fight night, depending on the number of bets placed and any news that may impact the fight. When a fighter is listed with minus odds, this means they are the favorite, while plus odds indicate they are the underdog.

Unlike most sports, which have fixed schedules, MMA matches are negotiated and scheduled one at a time by the fighters and promotions. As a result, there are always MMA fights to bet on. Most MMA fights are held on a weekly basis, with the UFC and Bellator hosting the most events. There are also a number of independent promoters that hold MMA events on a monthly or bi-monthly basis.

Aside from betting on individual fights, MMA betting also includes prop bets, which are exotic bets that focus on specific occurrences or non-occurrences not related to the final outcome of the fight. Some popular MMA prop bets include Method of Victory (Wounds, Submissions), Round Bets and Fight of the Night (FOTN).

Another key aspect to consider when placing a MMA bet is the fighter’s history and style. For example, a fighter coming off a devastating knockout loss can become more cautious inside the octagon and lose their edge against opponents. This can drastically change their approach and fighting styles.

It is also important to note the fighter’s weight class and their progress leading up to the fight. Some fighters have a hard time making weight for their fights, especially those who are moving down in class. This can lead to extreme measures, such as starving and dehydrating themselves, which can leave them drained for the fight.

In addition, a lot of MMA bettors like to place a parlay bet, which is an accumulator that combines several different bets into a single wager to increase the payout. However, it is important to know that all of the bets in the parlay must win for you to receive a payout. This makes parlays a risky form of betting, as any bet that is lost will significantly reduce your winnings. As such, it is important to understand the risk-reward ratio of a parlay bet before making a deposit. This will help you avoid making a costly mistake. Also, it is important to set a betting budget and stick to it. It is crucial to recognize the signs of problem gambling and seek assistance if needed.