When it comes to mma betting, there is a big difference between making any old wager and placing a smart one. In fact, even seasoned bettors can get caught up in some of the pitfalls unique to this sport and lose money when they should have been raking it in. Fortunately, there are some tried and true strategies that can help you make the most of your wagers and walk away with some green in your pockets.

Prop bets, parlays (accumulators), over/under rounds and method of victory are common MMA betting options. The latter refers to how a fighter is expected to win and offers odds that reflect how much money a bettor stands to win if their selection is correct. In general, the higher the risk of a bet, the greater the potential payout.

Keeping up with the fighters you are interested in betting on is essential for MMA bettors. Following their social media feeds can provide useful insights into a fighter’s mindset, training methods, and any injuries they might have accumulated. The ability to follow a fighter’s camp is also an invaluable tool as it allows bettors to watch how they prepare for their fight and how they perform in the weeks leading up to the main event.

Oddsmakers set over/under totals for MMA fights based on the matchup, fighter styles and how many rounds are scheduled. Generally speaking, the more aggressive fighters will tend to push the total closer to the Over while the more defensive fighters will push it towards the Under. However, this is not always the case.

For example, a fighter could be close to missing their weight class and will have to do drastic measures to stay on target at weigh-ins. These can include overtraining, starving and dehydrating themselves in order to make the cut. This can lead to a fighter looking tired and drained by the time they take the octagon which gives their opponent an edge.

Some sportsbooks offer a three-way line on the fight odds, with the option of a Draw match. This is not as popular as a bet on either fighter winning, but it is important to remember that a draw does not often happen and can significantly reduce your potential payout. Many MMA betting sites also allow bettors to place specific bets on the exact round in which a fight will end. This can increase your potential payout considerably but be careful as all bets on the exact round must be correct to win. The vig or juice on these bets is usually quite high and can significantly reduce the amount you are able to win. This is especially the case when betting on a live fight. This is why it is so crucial to have a solid strategy and to be fully prepared before placing any bets on an MMA bout. This will give you the best chance of making a profit. This is why it’s recommended to use a reputable MMA betting site with a great track record.