Online casino operators are jumping into the MMA and combat sports universe with gloves raised, not in the ring, but with sponsorships, brand deals and a flood of betting cash.
It’s not a secret that combat sports have burst into mainstream popularity in the last couple of decades. From the meteoric rise of the UFC to regional promotions such as ONE Championship and Bellator, fight enthusiasts worldwide are watching like never before. But there’s another sector entering the octagon, online casino operators.
What once was the domain of energy drinks, sports apparel and beer endorsements is now punctuated with casino sponsors giving away free spins, flashy bonuses and even MMA fight-specific odds. As it would turn out, the connection between adrenaline-fueled fighting and the gamblers’ game of instant wealth is nearer than a rear-naked choke.