Mixed martial arts organization UFC is the newest partner in the American Gaming Association’s responsible sports betting public service campaign.
The AGA said UFC will join NASCAR, the National Hockey League and the PGA Tour as promoters of the “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” message.
In addition to those sports leagues, Monumental Sports and Entertainment, the Vegas Golden Knights, and FanDuel are official campaign partners.
The AGA launched the “Have A Game Plan” campaign in 2019.
According to the AGA, the campaign focuses on the core principles of responsible sports betting: setting a budget and sticking to it, keeping betting social, knowing the odds and playing with trusted, regulated operators.
UFC said it will use its in-venue, digital and broadcast assets to promote co-branded marketing materials with UFC themes to encourage responsible sports betting.
UFC says it has more than 625m fans and 142m social media followers. The organization produces approximately 40 live events each year, broadcasting to some 900m TV households in 175 territories.
“We have the most passionate, die-hard fans of any sport and they love to bet on UFC, but it is important they do it responsibly,” UFC president Dana White said in a statement. “We are proud to work with the AGA and get behind this campaign to encourage our fans to make smart decisions and promote responsible gaming.”
AGA president and CEO Bill Miller (pictured) added: “As sports betting expands nationwide, professional sports leagues recognize the need to educate fans and ensure they are wagering safely. We are thankful to see this campaign grow as progressive leagues such as 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 AGA noted 25 states and Washington, DC, have legalized sports betting, with 21 jurisdictions already operational, meaning 100m American adults live in a jurisdiction where wagering on sports is legal.
At least 14 additional states have active or pre-filed legislation to legalize sports betting, the organization added.
