MMA betting is a popular way to make wagers on the outcome of a fight without having to leave your couch. There are a variety of wager types, from picking a winner to placing bets on the method of victory and how long the fight will last. Understanding odds, researching fighters, and managing your bankroll are key to making smart MMA bets.

Moneyline bets are the most basic MMA betting options. A moneyline bet essentially involves choosing which fighter you think will win the fight, with the odds reflecting how likely the fighter is to win. Favorites carry a minus symbol in front of their odds, while underdogs have a plus sign. In some cases, the odds will be so close that they’re equal. Those bets are referred to as “pick’ems.”

The main way to improve your chances of winning MMA bets is through thorough research and analysis. This includes studying fighters’ records, styles, and recent performances. It also includes paying attention to training camps. For instance, watching a fighter’s sparring sessions may indicate how well they’ll fare against an opponent with a similar style. In addition, it’s important to stay updated with last-minute news and injuries.

Prop bets are another way to place a wager during a live fight. These bets often offer unique betting opportunities, such as predicting the method of victory and what round a fight will end in. They’re based on the same formula as standard pre-fight betting, but the payout can be much higher if you’re correct.

In-play betting on MMA matches is available at BetMGM and offers many of the same markets as pre-fight betting. This includes the basics like method of victory and round betting, as well as fun props like ‘Gone in 60 Seconds’ where you can bet on whether either fighter will win in less than one minute. The option to combine bets into parlays is also offered.

While it can be tempting to follow the hysteria surrounding a fight, successful MMA betting requires careful research and analysis. The MMA betting market is incredibly nuanced, and even the most casual fan should have a few tried-and-true strategies.

Before betting, set a budget that you’re comfortable gambling with and never bet more than you can afford to lose. It’s also important to recognize when you’re losing and know when to walk away from the table. Gambling should be an enjoyable and engaging experience, not a path to financial ruin.