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Note from the Editor: The authors’ views and opinions expressed in this article are their own and may not necessarily align with Playinmichigan’s standpoint.
Upon stumbling across CNBC’s report about WWE engaging in discussions with regulators to legitimize betting on matches, I’m confident that I’m not the sole individual who shared a similar reaction.
WHAT?
NO?
What is the process for making that possible?
Most likely, the immediate reaction I had, and probably the majority of you had as well, is precisely the reason why this is not a good idea.
In my opinion, this report is more flash than substance. It has sparked discussions, but the chances of it actually happening are slim.
However, should the report hold any truth, the Michigan Gaming Control Board would significantly undermine its credibility by authorizing WWE betting.
Opinions on WWE betting from a wrestling fan
To be absolutely clear, I am an avid follower of professional wrestling. My passion for this sport began as a child when I became captivated by the epic showdown between Ricky Steamboat and Randy Savage at WrestleMania 3, which in my opinion surpassed even the iconic match between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant.
There have been moments in my life when I attempted to “outgrow it,” but I always failed to shake it off. It simply holds too much entertainment value for me.
During my childhood, I may have once naively believed that what I saw on screen was genuine, but now I am almost certain, with a 99.9% confidence, that such illusions no longer deceive me. Hopefully, you possess the ability to decipher sarcasm.
Pro wrestling can be described as a live-action soap opera featuring impressive stunt work and elaborate pageantry.
Pro wrestling is not a sport; that is what it is not.
It has never been and will never be.
CNBC reports WWE spoke with Michigan regulators
According to CNBC reporter Alex Sherman’s Wednesday report, the WWE is currently engaging in discussions with gambling regulators in Michigan and Colorado with the aim of legalizing betting on prominent wrestling matches.
Sherman mentioned that WWE had partnered with Ernst & Young to ensure that scripted match outcomes were kept secure. Additionally, they were actively taking measures to prevent any potential leakage of results to the general public.
Sherman’s Twitter post revealed that his report had been rejected by Colorado.
The MGCB revealed on Thursday that over a year ago, a third-party consultant approached them with a proposition to include WWE events in Michigan’s betting offerings. Unfortunately, no additional information or updates have been received by the agency since then.
According to Henry Williams, the executive director of the MGCB, in order for any Michigan-licensed operator or platform provider to be considered for inclusion in Michigan’s Sports Wagering Catalog, they must submit a formal request to the MGCB. As of now, the agency has not received any such request regarding WWE events wagering. Williams suggests that if the WWE is interested in proposing such wagering, they should collaborate with the gaming industry and bring forth a proposal to the MGCB.
Legalizing WWE betting would damage MGCB credibility
WWE prefers to label itself as “sports entertainment,” acknowledging its limited association with actual sports.
It is rather ironic that this report was published amidst Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
Wagering substantial amounts of money on a predetermined event is an unmistakable indication of problem gambling.
The legalized gambling industry strongly condemns offshore sportsbooks and unregulated gambling, emphasizing their irresponsibility. However, if they were to legalize betting on events such as WWE, their argument would lose credibility.
According to the MGCB, operators are limited to offering wager types that are reliant on the outcome of the game or event, which can be confirmed through a box score or statistical analysis.
Michigan consumers are unable to place bets on entertainment prop odds such as the national anthem or the Gatorade color during the Super Bowl due to this particular reason.
The outcomes of WWE matches are predetermined by a select booking committee, with the two “competing athletes” responsible for executing the moves and storytelling. However, they do not have control over the final result of the match.
WWE betting would be open to corruption
The legalized gambling industry strongly reacts to any notion of something being manipulated or rigged.
The NFL and the UFC have demonstrated a strong commitment to safeguarding the integrity of their respective sports. In response to gambling controversies, the NFL imposed a one-year suspension on Calvin Ridley for betting on football. Similarly, Ontario implemented a temporary ban on UFC betting due to concerns surrounding match-fixing.
Hence, the concept of legalizing betting on WWE seems incredibly illogical and highly improbable, owing to the fact that WWE essentially engages in match-fixing.
Although it is believed that the predetermined match results would not be disclosed, there is a possibility that several individuals would be aware of the outcome beforehand. While these individuals may not personally place bets, they could share this information with friends, family, or third parties who could then profit from it.
If the WWE enters into agreements with sportsbooks, it exposes its product to potential influence from those sportsbooks.
If a substantial amount of money is at stake, what measures would prevent the sportsbook from exerting influence on the WWE to manipulate the outcome in order to avoid significant financial losses?
When examining the WWE’s history, particularly Vince McMahon’s involvement, it becomes evident that integrity is not a term that should be closely linked to him or his product.
In addition, the WWE is currently up for sale. Will gambling regulators truly approve this transition and allow new ownership to take charge?
Keep pro wrestling at free-to-play pools
Michigan online sportsbooks already have a connection to professional wrestling.
Free-to-play pools for high-profile events in WWE and All Elite Wrestling have been organized by DraftKings Sportsbook MI.
Users are required to respond to a set of questions pertaining to an upcoming event in these pools. The individuals who provide the most accurate answers are rewarded with a portion of the prize pool.
There is no significant risk involved, as the top players receive only minimal winnings and users do not have to wager any of their own money to participate.
Associating pro wrestling with sports betting is now made safer, simpler, and more efficient.
If WWE betting happens, what’s next?
Let’s have some fun.
If WWE betting were to be legalized, what are some potential betting options that could follow?
I possess some thoughts.
- The match between the Harlem Globetrotters and the Washington Generals
- The epic clash between Adonis Creed and Rocky Balboa
- Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith engage in the ultimate debate.
- Who will be responsible for Homelander’s demise in The Boys?
- How often will Blake Shelton swivel his chair on The Voice?
- Who should be crowned as the Premier League Coach of the Year: Ted Lasso or Nathan Shelly?
These options, which are undeniably absurd, are the type of choices one could come across while browsing through an offshore sportsbook.
The MGCB has recently launched a fresh initiative called “Don’t Regret The Bet” as part of their campaign for Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
If WWE betting were to be legalized, it would be a highly regrettable situation for both the MGCB and the legalized gambling industry.
