From the early days when MMA started to become popular, the sport has been inherently linked with Las Vegas. Naturally, that forged a strong connection between MMA and casinos. In fact, UFC president Dana White was childhood friends with Lorenzo Fertitta, who purchased UFC in 2001 and co-founded a Las Vegas casino. Therefore, the link between MMA fighting and casinos has always been there.
Of course, the gambling world is changing. Rather than traditional brick-and-mortar casinos owning the market, there has been a recent rise in the popularity of online casinos. Yet, there remains a link between the best online casinos and the world of MMA. Let’s explore why there is still a connection between MMA and casino games, even as casinos movie online.
Fighting Games
If it’s popular, it’s a safe bet that there is an online slot game based on it. Part of the appeal of online casinos is the volume of games available, as well as the innovative nature of some of the new slot games available on those platforms. Naturally, there is no shortage of online slot games that are focused on MMA, not to mention games influenced by boxing and wrestling. This helps to forge the link between online casinos and MMA by keeping fans engaged with MMA even when there are no fights to keep them entertained. Needless to say, this is good for the UFC brand, helping to continue to grow the sport.
Athletes
Don’t discount the direct connection between MMA athletes and online casinos. It’s no secret that prominent athletes in a variety of sports have a fondness for gambling. This holds true for several MMA fighters, boxers, and pro wrestlers, many of whom have been upfront about their betting habits. As a sign of the times, many of them have gravitated toward the convenience of online casinos rather than relying solely on traditional casinos. Since top-flight MMA fighters are celebrities, they have influence over fans. The fact that they enjoy online casino games encourages fans to follow their lead and enjoy online gaming as well.
Sponsorships
It’s virtually impossible to watch an MMA fight or any other sporting event without seeing gambling brands being advertised. Various gambling companies and famous casino brands often put advertisements in the octagon during MMA fights. Some of them also serve as the primary sponsors of MMA events or sponsor a fighter. These companies have a strong understanding that there is a strong cross-section between MMA fans and those who enjoy online casino games. This makes advertisements and cross-marketing between MMA and online casinos a natural fit, adding to the connection the two industries are developing with one another.
Sports Betting and Online Casinos
Thanks to the obvious similarities between sports betting platforms and online casinos, there is also a connection between MMA and online casinos. Keep in mind that many prominent sportsbooks also operate a casino platform. This makes it easier to sway MMA fans who are placing bets on fights to give online casino games a chance. This is where the convenience of online casinos plays a key role as well. During short intermissions between fights during MMA events, fans can easily sneak in a few minutes of game time at online casinos while also checking out the odds on the following fight. The two platforms are a perfect match for each other and help forge the connection between MMA and online casinos.
