MMA betting is a fast-growing sport that is attracting big money at the sportsbooks. While it’s not as simple as placing a bet on a favorite or underdog, there are several techniques that can help bettors make smarter wagers and improve their odds of winning. Among these techniques are studying fighters’ styles, researching their past fights, and learning about the weight classes they compete in.

Unlike some other sports, MMA has many different weight classes for its fighters. This means that fighters are able to move up and down in weight according to their performance. Some fighters are better suited to the smaller weight classes, while others struggle to cut down to the lower weight limits. This can have a huge impact on the way they fight in the octagon. For example, a fighter that struggles to cut down may not perform as well in the smaller divisions and will have a harder time keeping up with their opponents.

Another thing to keep in mind when making MMA bets is the effect that a KO loss can have on a fighter. While it’s rare for a KO defeat to be a permanent blow to a fighter’s career, it can still have a significant impact on their mental and physical state going into future fights. Fighters coming off a knockout loss can become overly cautious inside the octagon and may not have as much of an edge as they normally do.

In addition to studying fighters’ styles and examining their past performances, MMA bettors can also conduct research into the matchup’s Over/Under rounds. This type of bet is based on how many rounds the fight will last and how long each round will be. Generally, the over/under is set at 2.5 rounds, meaning that the fight must end before or after the 2:30 mark of the third round.

Lastly, MMA bettors should always shop around the lines at different sportsbooks and do this as early as possible. This is known as line shopping and is an integral part of any sharp bettor’s strategy. This can help them find flawed lines and make more profitable bets.

Mma betting is a sport of chances and one lucky punch can change the entire outcome of a match. That’s why it’s crucial for bettors to follow fighters on social media and get a behind-the-scenes look at the fighters’ training regimens. This will allow bettors to see how a fighter is progressing in their weight cutting and conditioning, and can give them an advantage when making their bets. In-play betting is also a great option for MMA bettors as it allows them to see how the odds are shifting in real time and make adjustments accordingly. This gives them a distinct advantage over pre-fight betting, where the odds are determined by algorithms and live traders who often fail to consider important technical aspects that keen MMA bettors can spot.