UFC and AGA Join Forces to Tackle Responsible Sports Betting

The growth of the sports betting industry in the United States has exploded over the course of the last two years. This was after the United States declared the defunct law prohibiting such gambling unconstitutional.

Recent years saw various bookmakers rally to enter regulated markets in 21 states (and the city of Washington DC), where betting is now live and legal. A further 6 states have officially legalised the practice but are yet to go live, which means that more avenues are soon to become available across the nation.

In preparation for the market boom, the proactively positioned American Gaming Association (AGA) launched a swift public service campaign in 2019, called Have a Game Plan® - Bet Responsibly™. This initiative serves to combat the increased risk of problem gambling in the country by instituting gambling awareness drives across all markets.

The UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) league, has recently joined the fight as the campaign’s latest partner to actively encourage responsible betting practices among its fans.

Current AGA president, Bill Miller, couldn’t be more thrilled by the added support of the sporting industry. He said:

“As sports betting expands nationwide, professional sports leagues recognize the need to educate fans and ensure they’re wagering safely. We’re thankful to see this campaign grow as progressive leagues like UFC lend their considerable voice to this important effort. UFC’s commitment is important to engage, educate and encourage their fans – some of whom may be placing bets for the first time – to wager responsibly.”

The UFC has a massive following of over 625 million fans worldwide and broadcasts more than 40 live events every year. Its efforts are sure to make a massive impact on the betting market.

The UFC president, Dana White, voiced his fervent support for the AGA, stating:

“We have the most passionate, die-hard fans of any sport and they love to bet on UFC, but it’s important they do it responsibly. “We’re proud to work with the AGA and get behind this campaign to encourage our fans to make smart decisions and promote responsible gaming.”

The MMA league will provide coverage for the campaign during its live shows by using its digital broadcasting assets to promote branded marketing materials for the encouragement of safe betting in its respective venues.

More Information Many Hands Make Light Work

The more partners that the AGA can get on board with their national drive, the better for Americans everywhere. Sports betting is meant to be entertaining, and the association aims to keep it a fun environment by highlighting the four following values to punters:

Set a budget and stick to it: A measure of control is the greatest key to remaining responsible. Predetermine how much you want to spend and cash out once you have reached that limit.
Keep it social: Play with family and friends to keep the gaming entertaining. This way, you can all keep yourselves accountable.
Be informed: Take time to learn and understand the games that you are playing, and the risks involved in each bet you place.
Play with trusted operators: Always play at regulated bookmakers with a license in the jurisdiction you’re playing from. These operators are held to a strict code of ethics and abide by responsible gambling protocols which are there for your protection.

Several premier American sporting leagues currently support and market the AGA’s program, including the National Hockey League (NHL), the PGA Tour (Golf), and NASCAR (motor racing). There is, however, much room for improvement when it comes to partnerships in this area.

The question that beckons an answer right now, is what are the views of the National Baseball League (NBL), National Basketball League (NBA), and the National Football League (NFL) on responsible gambling?

These three sporting leagues are uniquely American and have massive followings. As a show of solidarity for betting and as a display of consideration for their fans, these giants should come to the party soon to establish a safer gambling environment now, at American sports betting’s infancy.