Successful MMA betting requires research and the ability to interpret fight statistics. It also requires an understanding of fighters’ fighting styles, especially their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, it’s important to understand how fighters are ranked and their recent performance. This information can be helpful when placing bets on the winner of a given fight or on a round total.

Oddsmakers typically set Over/Under totals for MMA fights, based on the expected number of rounds the contest will last. Depending on the style of the matchup and the fighters’ abilities, the Over/Under can be a profitable wager for those who are patient and careful.

Unlike football and basketball, which have large liquidity and a strong public following, MMA odds move more slowly. This means big bets and waves of public money can impact the odds more than they do for other sports. Therefore, it’s important to shop around for the best odds. Many online sportsbooks offer a variety of prices, so be sure to check them all before making a bet.

Mma fights have a much shorter duration than boxing contests, and a fight can be won in just a few minutes. Because of this, Mma fighters are able to throw more punches and kicks, which can lead to KOs and submissions. Consequently, betting on a KO is a profitable wager.

However, KO bets can be dangerous because they can lead to injuries for some fighters, especially those who are new to the sport. As such, it’s crucial to research fighters’ injuries and health history before placing a bet.

Another way to improve your odds is by using a site that offers live betting. During a live fight, the odds are constantly updated based on how the fight unfolds. Similarly, live bets are often better for live betting because they provide more action and offer higher payouts.

MMA fighters can win in a variety of ways, including a KO, submission, or judge’s decision. Method-of-victory bets are a popular option for those who enjoy analyzing the nuances of a fight. They are usually available as single bets, parlays, and accumulators.

In MMA, there are multiple weight classes, and fighters can move up or down in class depending on their success. This is important because fighters at different levels can be better or worse at cutting weight. Fighters that struggle to make the weight limit can suffer from physical and mental fatigue during a fight, which may affect their performance. Those who are able to cut weight more efficiently tend to perform better in the octagon. In addition, fighting at a lower weight can help some fighters avoid injuries due to poor conditioning.