Mixed martial arts (MMA) is an incredibly popular sport that has brought in big money at the betting windows. Sports betting sharps have taken note and are looking for ways to make the most of this growing revenue generator. Betting on MMA fights can be lucrative, but it takes some research to identify opportunities. There are a number of important factors to consider before making your bets, including fighters’ records and styles, the amount of rounds scheduled, and any injuries or recent performance history.

One type of bet that is unique to MMA is the method of victory wager. These bets are placed on whether a fight will end in a knockout, technical knockout (TKO), submission, or judge decision. A fighter’s record in these categories will play a large role in their odds, and it is important to understand how different methods of victory are awarded.

Another important factor to consider when placing a bet is a fighter’s ability to last the distance. MMA fights are typically three or five rounds long, and it is important to know how many times a fighter can survive until the end of the bout. This information is often available in a fighter’s profile, and paying attention to the number of rounds a fighter has won by can be very helpful in determining which bets are the best value.

Finally, a bettors should always pay attention to a fighter’s weigh-in performance. Many MMA fights take place in weight classes with very strict limits, and fighters that struggle to make the weight can experience extreme dehydration leading up to the event. This can cause their cerebrospinal fluid to decrease, which makes them more susceptible to a knockout. This type of bet can be extremely profitable, especially if the fighter you are backing is a heavy favorite.

MMA is a fast-paced sport, and the odds for a given match are constantly changing. In addition, a fighter’s record and style can drastically change over time, so it is essential to have a strong understanding of the sport in order to spot these changes. Some of these changes may be subtle, but they can make a significant difference when deciding on which bets to place.

The most effective MMA betting strategies involve studying the fighters’ records, fighting styles, and any injuries or other factors that could affect their performance in the ring. Many MMA bettors use a thought process known as “MMA math” to determine which fighters are the best value. They compare the records of two fighters and look for similarities. However, this method can be misleading, as it can distract from studying fighter film and handicapping styles. Moreover, it can lead bettors to focus on the wrong factors and misplace their bets.