As sports betting continues to spread to more US states, and former taboos against associating with gambling melt away, celebrities are embracing the role of ambassadors with gaming companies.
The latest were revealed on Friday, when OddsChecker said it has partnered with boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr., for the 2021 NFL season, and BetMGM named MMA journalist/personality Ariel Helwani as its newest brand ambassador.
OddsChecker, which came online with the legalization of online gambling in the US in 2018, noted Mayweather is one of the best boxers in the history of the sport, retiring with a spotless record of 50-0.
“With the 2021 NFL season set to be the biggest to date for betting, we are thrilled to be partnering with another legendary winner, Floyd Mayweather Jr.,” the company said in a statement.
“I am happy to partner with OddsChecker for the NFL Kickoff,” Mayweather added. “OddsChecker gives you the best odds, picks and promos for free so you can bet smarter.”
BetMGM said its partnership with Helwani includes promotional opportunities
Helwani agreed to integrate BetMGM into his promotional content, and he will be featured in upcoming BetMGM marketing campaigns, social media content and promotions, as well as fan events.
Over the course of his career, Helwani has worked with major sports outlets, including ESPN and SB Nation. He currently hosts The MMA Hour for Vox media as well as The Ringer MMA Show podcast, breaking down the latest fights across MMA, boxing and pro wrestling.
Helwani has been the recipient of the World MMA Award Journalist of the Year award for 10 consecutive years.
“Sports betting has always been intertwined with the mixed martial arts world and now, with its availability in more states, I am excited to work hand-in-hand with BetMGM to deliver unique insights into the sports betting world,” said Helwani.
Matt Prevost, chief revenue officer, BetMGM, added, “Ariel has played a prominent role over the years in growing MMA to the masses. His extensive knowledge and signature reporting style makes him a tremendous addition to the BetMGM team.”
The BetMGM app is available on both iOS and Android, as well as accessible via desktop.
Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International and Entain, BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM’s US land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain’s US-licensed technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino, Party Casino and PartyPoker.
Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey.
