The popularity of MMA betting has increased exponentially with the sport’s increasing recognition. In addition to placing bets on which fighter will win a fight, MMA bettors can also place wagers on a variety of other prop bets such as total rounds (over/under on how many rounds the fight will last) and Method of Victory (bet on which fighter will win and in which round the fight will end). Prop bets are an excellent way to leverage your knowledge of the sport in order to reap larger payouts than would otherwise be available with standard moneyline bets.

Despite their differences in fighting style, there are similarities between the various combatants. As such, examining how their styles match up is an important step in handicapping a fight. In addition to assessing their striking and grappling abilities, bettors should take note of each fighter’s stance as well. An orthodox fighter who fights against a southpaw could have an advantage due to their natural reach, and this should be considered when placing a bet.

In terms of the fights themselves, bettors should pay close attention to the results of both fighters’ previous matches. A seasoned fighter’s past opponents will provide a wealth of information on their ability to perform against high-level competition. In addition, bettors should always consider a fighter’s weight class in relation to their opponent. Fighters who struggle to make the weight limit may be forced to starve themselves and dehydrate in an effort to tip the scales, which can leave them drained in the early stages of the fight.

Another factor to consider is the age difference between the fighters. The younger fighter will likely have the more dominant striking game, and bettors should consider this when making their selections. However, be careful not to fall into the trap of doing what is known as “MMA math.” Many bettors will attempt to compare records based on how each fighter has performed against similar opponents. However, this method can be misleading and can distract from the more effective tactics of studying fight film.

Lastly, bettors should look for any news or developments regarding the health and preparation of both fighters in the lead-up to the fight. A fighter who has been injured during training camp is less likely to perform at their best, and should be avoided when placing bets on an upcoming bout.

Finally, bettors should familiarize themselves with a sportsbook’s full list of MMA betting markets. Some sites offer a wide range of props for each fight, while others focus on particular subcategories such as Round Betting and Method of Victory. BetMGM, for example, offers several interesting props including ’Gone in 60 Seconds’ where players can place a bet on either fighter to win inside of one minute.