Mike Tyson is the betting underdog in his upcoming fight against Jake Paul.
The latest odds (see them here) have fans of the former WBC heavyweight champion rushing to their favorite gambling website to get a piece of the action; however, some states have swooped in to lock down any and all “Paul vs. Tyson” wagers.
New York State Gaming Commission, along with Colorado Limited Gaming Control Commission and Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board have prohibited sportsbooks from taking bets on the Netflix-streamed headliner for a variety of reasons.
That includes the bout’s “non-traditional format” that resembles “more of an exhibition,” according to a report from Covers, despite the fact that Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation sanctioned the oft-maligned contest under professional rules.
Kentucky, Louisiana, and Vermont have also banned “Paul vs. Tyson” wagers.
That said, other regulatory bodies, like Massachusetts Gaming Commission, suggested a betting ban would have the opposite effect and drive gamblers to less scrupulous outlets — or that shady guy who hangs around the Buffalo Wild Wings bathroom.
“We talk about the illegal market and what drives folks to the illegal market,” chairman Jordan Maynard said. “I think if we did ban this, especially as it falls currently under our rules today as approved, we would only be potentially moving people in Massachusetts to the illegal market on this fight.”
Paul claims he will be making his own bet ahead of tonight’s showdown.
For the finalized “Paul vs. Tyson” fight card and Netflix lineup click here.