The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has halted all wagers on World Boxing Association (WBA) bouts. This action follows an assessment of the WBA’s ethical standing, specifically worries about manipulated matches and wagering by those with inside information.
The AGCO’s inquiry commenced in December 2023 following questionable betting behavior surrounding a WBA championship match in Orlando, Florida, between Yordenis Ugas and Livan Navarro. Atypical wagering trends, identified by independent integrity overseers, emerged regarding the fight’s duration exceeding five and a half rounds. Subsequently, media accounts arose alleging that Ugas’s representative placed substantial bets at a Florida gaming establishment on the fight surpassing this timeframe. Ugas secured victory in the 10th round by knockout.
Following an extensive investigation involving the WBA, authorized gaming operators, and other regulatory bodies, the AGCO concluded that wagering on WBA events fails to meet its criteria for secure and lawful gambling within Ontario.
This instruction dictates that Ontario-based gaming entities are obligated to exclusively provide sports wagering on contests governed by a recognized regulatory authority. This authority must implement regulations that bar individuals with inside knowledge from placing bets on their respective sports.
The Ontario Alcohol and Gaming Commission (AGCO) halted wagers on World Boxing Association (WBA) matches due to concerns that the organization was not adequately preventing the manipulation of bout outcomes. The AGCO expressed apprehension that insiders, such as trainers, promoters, and representatives, could place bets on fights and potentially sway the results.
The AGCO has indicated that wagering on WBA events can recommence in Ontario if the WBA can provide evidence of enhanced integrity measures that align with regulatory benchmarks.
This scenario mirrors a comparable suspension of UFC betting in December 2022, which was lifted after the UFC revised its protocols and practices to address concerns regarding betting integrity.
“Individuals in Ontario who opt to engage in wagering on sporting events should have assurance that these events are conducted fairly and that robust integrity safeguards are in place, overseen by competent sports governing entities,” stated Dr. Karin Schnarr, Registrar and CEO of the AGCO.
The heart of Ontario beats for boxing, and the return of wagering hinges on the World Boxing Association’s ability to address fight manipulation and illicit gambling. The hope is that a clean sport will pave the way for renewed betting opportunities.
This development follows the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario granting Air Dice Group their B2B license, a significant step as they aim to establish a presence in the North American digital gaming market.