Successful MMA betting is not a shot in the dark, but a calculated strategy based on research and observations. Bettors must consider fighters’ past performance, current form, and fighting styles when selecting bets. They also need to understand how to read the odds and manage their bankroll. It is important to set a realistic budget that you can afford to gamble with and never play beyond your means. It is also helpful to follow MMA news and pay attention to fighters’ fight camps, training and weight cuts as these can impact their performances in the ring.

One of the most common MMA betting types is a moneyline bet. These are based on a fighter’s odds to win the fight and reflect the likelihood of that outcome. Favorites are indicated with a minus sign (-) and underdogs with a plus sign (+). The odds are a useful tool for MMA bettors, as they provide insight into how much risk and reward is associated with a specific bet.

Another popular MMA bet type is the Over/Under bet or totals. These wagers are based on a number of elements of the fight, such as how many rounds the fight will last or the number of punches, kicks and knockdowns. A sportsbook will select a value for each of these elements, and the bettor must decide whether the actual event will fall over or under that number.

In addition to these bet types, MMA fans can also place prop bets on specific components of a fight, such as method of victory and in which round the fight will end. These bets offer more variety and potential payouts than standard bet types. However, they are more difficult to win and require a more in-depth understanding of fighter statistics.

Choosing the correct fighter to back in a MMA match is another important factor when placing a bet. Successful MMA bettors look at a fighter’s overall record, recent performance and upcoming fight schedule when making their selections. They also seek out underdogs with a point to prove, such as fighters who are making their UFC debut or returning after a disappointing previous outing. In the long run, bettors should also avoid backing favorites who are showing signs of decline in their performance.

In addition to betting on individual fights, MMA fans can make parlays, which combine several bets into a single wager for a larger payout. However, it is important to remember that all of the bets in a parlay must win for the wager to pay out. This can be a risky strategy, as it is not uncommon for even the best fighters to lose some of their fights. Therefore, it is vital to conduct extensive research and analysis on each individual bet before combining them in a parlay. This will maximize the chances of a winning bet and help to offset losses. This way, MMA bettors can continue to enjoy the thrill of gambling without putting themselves at financial risk.