Betting on MMA matches can be a fun and profitable pastime, but there is a big difference between any old MMA bet and a smart MMA bet. Taking the time to study fighters, their styles and training methods can help bettors improve their chances of success in the octagon. In addition, bettors should understand the different types of MMA betting and how to read fight odds in order to maximize their potential winnings.

Money line bets are the most basic type of MMA wager and offer bettors a straightforward experience. These bets are placed on a single fighter, and the odds reflect the potential payout for each bet. Favorites are indicated by minus odds (for example, -200), while underdogs are displayed with plus odds (a $100 bet on the favorite would win $200 in profit).

Another popular MMA wager is the over/under total for a particular fight. This is based on the overall fighting style of the two fighters and how many rounds they are scheduled to fight. The Over/Under number is then set by the sportsbook and reflected in the odds. Usually, the more aggressive the fighters are, the higher the Over/Under will be.

Prop bets are a great way to add more excitement to your MMA wagering experience. These bets are based on specific occurrences during the fight, and they can include anything from how the match will end (submission, knockout or decision) to which round the fight will last. Typically, these bets are offered at online sportsbooks and can have a wide variety of options to choose from.

While a lot of research is required for all MMA betting, this is particularly true in the case of MMA prop bets. These bets are based on unique and often unpublished statistics, and the more you know about a fighter’s abilities, the better your chances of making educated bets. This may involve studying a fighter’s past fights, analyzing their skillsets and making predictions based on their tendencies.

One of the biggest mistakes that bettors can make is basing their wagers on sentiment or a fighter’s popularity, rather than doing proper research into their abilities. This can lead to emotional betting and a lack of discipline, which can ultimately set you up for losses. To avoid this, be sure to set a budget for your gambling and stick to it.

Finally, it is also important to be wary of placing a wager based on a fighter’s record in a certain weight class. While this can be a good indicator of their skill, it is often not a reliable predictor of future results in other weight classes. For example, a fighter who is accustomed to fighting at a lighter weight could struggle to make it down to a new weight class. While they might be physically able to make the cut, their mental state may not be ready for a sudden change in competition and technique. This can also be a concern for fighters who have recently suffered a knockout loss as they may lose their edge in the octagon and become more cautious in their approach to a fight.