MMA betting is a popular and potentially lucrative form of wagering on the sport. There are a few tried and true strategies for making smart bets on MMA matches. However, it is important to understand the nuances of the sport and its betting lines before placing any bets.

Putting down a bet on a fight is one thing, but placing a bet that maximizes your chances of winning is another. The difference is the amount of research you put in and the ability to read the odds in a smart way. The process of analyzing the odds is called handicapping and it involves evaluating the matchup, fighters’ styles, records, and injuries. In addition, you should consider a fighter’s reach and weight class when comparing opponents.

Many sportsbooks offer a wide range of options for MMA betting, including Over/Under bets on the number of rounds in a match. Using these bets can help you decide whether the match will go the distance or end early. The higher the Over/Under bet, the more money you can expect to win. However, it is important to remember that you will also lose money if you bet the Under.

A wise strategy for MMA betting is to bet on underdogs, especially when the favorite has short odds. This is because the oddsmakers are assuming that everyone will back the winner. However, that’s not always the case and all it takes is one lucky punch by an underdog to send the champ – and your bankroll – to hell in a handbasket.

When placing a bet on an MMA match, you can also take advantage of props, or proposition bets. These bets are based on unique aspects of the fight, such as how a match will end or how a particular fighter will perform in a specific round. These bets can also be placed as part of a parlay, where you make multiple selections in a single bet for a larger payout.

Another good tip for MMA betting is to follow the fighters’ camps. This will give you valuable insights into their training and preparation for the upcoming fight. For instance, you might notice that a fighter who is moving up a weight class seems slower or that a green fighter has been struggling in sparring. This information can lead to informed bets that will boost your profits.