WWE wants US bettors to bet on matches

WWE hopes to get US gaming regulators to allow wagering on specific WWE matches. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

A bold suggestion

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has reportedly reached out to gaming authorities in Michigan and Colorado. The wrestling brand is trying to get regulators to allow betting on certain high-profile games, even though the outcomes of those games are predetermined.

WWE works with the accounting and finance firm Ernst & Young

CNBC reported that WWE is working with accounting and finance firm Ernst & Young (EY) to put in place a system that means the results of upcoming matches cannot be released to the general public. Even the wrestlers would only know the results of the matches a few hours before the match. The hope is that by implementing such a tight-lipped system, regulators would be more likely to give the bet proposal the green light.

The possible timetable

EY has a track record of protecting sensitive information, including working with celebrity awards shows to prevent results from leaking ahead of the actual event. Some major US sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel accept bets on awards shows such as the Academy Awards. No regulated US sportsbook currently offers real money betting markets on WWE matches, but this is often an option on overseas platforms.

Free-to-play betting on WWE matches is available through certain US sportsbooks. For example, DraftKings has partnerships with both All Elite Wrestling and WWE through which it offers virtual betting opportunities to fans. People enter their predictions for free and the best players often have a cash prize available.

Before a hard fight

Despite reports that WWE has been in talks with certain gaming authorities, the chances of the proposal gaining traction appear slim. Reportedly a spokesman for the Colorado Division of Gaming has scrapped the idea that the regulator would allow wagering on WWE games.

said CNBC that the regulator has not considered allowing this type of wagering in the past and is not currently considering the matter. Betting on events with a predicted or certain outcome is not currently legal in Colorado. This includes placing bets on the Academy Awards.

Michigan allows wagering on awards shows

Michigan allows wagering on awards shows, WWE has responded‘s suggestion may not be so negative in the state of Great Lakes. Even if regulators approve this type of bet, sportsbooks would still have to decide whether they would be willing to offer odds on WWE matches on an individual basis.