When it comes to betting on boxing, UK fans face a crowded landscape with a mix of credible sites and risky operators. To help us sort out the best options and stay safe, we spoke with Teemu Mattila, a betting expert at Bojoko.com. They are a UK-facing iGaming comparison platform that only lists UKGC-licensed betting sites and is known for its due diligence and detailed vetting to protect its readers.
In this interview, Mattila provides insider tips on finding reliable platforms, comparing betting sites, and how to protect yourself from scams.
It may make sense to start with Bojoko and why you only list UKGC-licensed casinos. What’s the significance for UK bettors?
Bojoko was created by players for players with the aim of shaking up the power balance online. The goal was, and still is, to empower punters. We provide comparison tools that let you filter and narrow down options based on what’s important to you, like bonuses, payment methods, and a whole myriad of features. We also have a team of expert players who vet and test the sites, highlighting all positives and negatives. However, to be listed, we first need to verify that the website is safe.
We believe strongly in protecting our users, and only listing UKGC-licensed casinos is central to that. A UKGC license isn’t just a stamp on a website; it’s a sign that the casino has met strict standards on fairness, safety, and player protection. Licensed operators have to abide by UK law, and they’re regularly audited to ensure that their games and financial processes are above board. This isn’t always the case for casinos without a UK license.
For bettors, using a UKGC-licensed site provides reassurance. If something goes wrong—say, you encounter a dispute over a bet or payment—you have a recourse here in the UK. You can contact the UKGC or even use services like Resolver to help escalate complaints, which is a massive safeguard for consumers.
Boxing betting is a big draw in the UK, but with so many sites, it’s hard to pick the best one. What should UK bettors look for when comparing boxing betting sites?
It can be overwhelming, but there are a few essential criteria to keep in mind. On Bojoko, we have created a list of the boxing betting sites we consider to be the best in the UK, which can be a great place to start as it streamlines your research.
First, look at the odds offered. Boxing betting can be tight with margins, so finding the best odds can significantly impact your winnings. Also, check for specific markets offered for each fight—does the site provide options for round betting, method of victory, or over/under rounds? The more detailed options a site provides, the more flexible your betting strategy can be.
Next, promotions can make a difference, especially for new bettors. Look for sites that offer bonuses specific to boxing events, but read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unexpected restrictions. Some promotions might sound appealing but have steep wagering requirements, so it’s worth a closer look.
And, of course, customer support is crucial. Betting can be time-sensitive, and you want quick responses if you’re dealing with a payment issue or an odds discrepancy. UKGC-licensed sites are usually transparent with support options, so make sure there’s an accessible customer service team available.
Safety is a big concern for many bettors. What steps should someone take to stay safe when betting online?
Staying safe online is key, especially with money on the line. The first step is choosing a licensed operator. Beyond that, see expert and user ratings and read reviews; this will help give you an idea of just how solid the website actually is.
In terms of more general safety and responsible gambling, I also advise bettors to set limits. Most UKGC-licensed sites allow you to set deposit limits, loss limits, and even time-outs, which are great tools for managing your play. This is particularly helpful with the excitement around boxing matches, where you might feel tempted to keep betting.
Lastly, keep your passwords secure and consider using two-factor authentication where available. Many betting sites now offer 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security to your account.
What about scams? How can bettors avoid falling for shady betting websites?
Scams in online betting can be tricky to spot, but there is immediate protection: the UKGC license. Any website licensed by the UKGC is highly unlikely to engage in fraudulent activity, as it would risk losing its license, incurring huge fines, and possibly worse.
Be mindful that scam websites may have a fake UKGC logo on their website, so if you are in doubt, check the license number. Going through an affiliate will be an extra safeguard here, as we vet brands thoroughly before we list them.
For newcomers to boxing betting, what advice would you give them to get started wisely?
Start small and do your research! Boxing betting can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to ease into it. Research the fighters, understand the odds, and avoid jumping straight into high-stakes bets. Most importantly, keep it fun and within your budget.
If you’re just starting, look for welcome bonuses or beginner-friendly promotions, as they can give you some free play without much financial risk. But as always, check the terms and conditions to ensure you understand the rules attached to the bonus.
Any last thoughts for our readers?
Just remember that betting is meant to be enjoyable. Using a licensed, reputable platform and betting responsibly helps ensure it stays that way. Betting on boxing matches can be a fantastic way to increase the suspense, but stick to UKGC-licensed sites, stay informed, and never bet on more than you can afford.
