Betting on MMA is becoming more and more popular as the sport grows and becomes more mainstream. It’s a great way to increase the excitement of watching a fight, but you should be aware that it’s not without risk. Here are some tips to help you be a responsible MMA bettor.

The first step in MMA betting is learning how to read the odds. These odds showcase how much a bettor can win for their wagers, per $100. Favorites are indicated by a minus sign (-), while underdogs have a plus sign (+). You should also note that a fighter’s odds may change throughout the day, so they should be considered only as a guide.

MMA odds are generally presented in moneyline format. This bet type is the most straightforward, as you simply select which fighter you think will win the fight. The odds for each fighter are displayed in a ratio, with the higher number indicating a larger payout if you bet on the favorite. However, it’s important to remember that the odds can change based on betting patterns, so be sure to check them regularly.

MMMA betting also includes a variety of prop bets, or exotic bets that focus on specific match details like fighter stats and specific Over/Unders. One of the most interesting prop bets is a method-of-victory wager, which allows you to place a bet on how a particular fighter will win their fight. These bets can include a knockout, technical knockout, submission, or decision.

Another thing to keep in mind when placing MMA bets is that a fighter’s weight can affect the outcome of a fight. In the lead-up to a bout, fighters can take drastic measures to avoid missing their weigh-in, which could leave them exhausted and drained before the fight even begins. In addition, some fighters struggle to make their designated weight class and must go through a rigorous training routine in order to lose enough weight.

MMMA betting also involves analyzing a fighter’s statistics, including takedown numbers, knockouts, and average rounds fought. But you should be careful not to rely too heavily on these numbers, as there are often personal vendettas, rivalries, and rematches at play that don’t show up in the statistics. Also, the fact that fighters are often pushed to the limit at their weigh-ins can skew their performance statistics.