In MMA betting, the most basic wager is the moneyline bet. In this bet, you choose which fighter you think will win the fight. The odds for this bet are determined by the plus and minus system, where favorites offer a lower payout while underdogs present a higher risk and reward. However, the odds for this bet can change based on betting patterns and any new fighting news that may emerge.

Betting on MMA matches can also be done using prop bets, parlays (accumulators), over/under and round bets. These bets offer the chance to bet on different aspects of a fight, such as how many rounds it will last or how many punches or kicks will be landed. These bets are more complicated than moneyline bets and can provide a bigger payout if you get it right.

A big part of MMA betting is conducting research on the fights you plan to bet on. Whether it is looking at previous fighting results, statistics or any new fighting news that has emerged, this research can help you make more informed decisions. While this can be time consuming, it is well worth it if you want to increase your chances of winning.

In addition to studying a fight’s history, bettors should consider the fighting styles of each fighter when handicapping their matchups. For example, a southpaw fighter can have an advantage against an orthodox fighter because the latter may not be used to their style of fighting. Likewise, it is important to note a fighter’s weight class as some fighters are unable to cut or maintain their weight and could have a disadvantage inside the octagon if they do not make it under their designated limit.

Lastly, it is crucial to set a budget for your betting and stick to it. It is easy to become caught up in the excitement of MMA betting and end up gambling more than you can afford. This type of betting is inherently risky, so it is best to play within your means and avoid chasing losses.

Another way to improve your MMA betting experience is to bet on live fights. These bets are available through most sportsbooks and allow you to place a bet on the action as it unfolds. The odds for these bets are constantly changing based on the action in the cage and can often result in huge wins for bettors.

MMA betting has a number of unique wagering options, but the most common is the moneyline bet. This bet is based on the plus and minus system, where favorites will have a minus symbol in front of their odds, while underdogs will have a plus sign in front of them. However, the odds for this bet will change based on how much money is being placed on each side and any new fighting news that may emerge. These changes will usually be reflected in the odds on the sportsbook’s website.