The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has issued a directive to Ontario-registered sportsbook operators, mandating an immediate halt to wagering on World Boxing Association (WBA) events. This action follows concerns about match-fixing and insider betting related to WBA-sanctioned boxing matches.
Background
The AGCO initiated a comprehensive review in December 2023 after suspicious betting activities were detected surrounding a WBA-sanctioned title fight between Yoenis Tellez and Livan Navarro in Orlando, Florida. Notable irregular betting patterns emerged, especially regarding wagers on the fight’s duration surpassing 5.5 rounds. These concerns were raised by independent integrity monitors and detected by a registered iGaming operator in Ontario.
Reports suggested significant betting by Tellez’s manager on the fight extending beyond 5.5 rounds at a Florida casino. The match concluded with Tellez knocking out Navarro in the 10th round, raising further suspicions.
AGCO’s Determination
After a thorough investigation involving coordination with various stakeholders, including the WBA, gaming operators, integrity monitors, and regulatory bodies from other jurisdictions, the AGCO concluded that WBA events did not meet the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming. Specifically, the WBA’s failure to prohibit insider betting and address match-fixing allegations contributed to this decision.
Directive and Future Expectations
The AGCO directive mandates that Ontario-registered gaming operators must only offer sports betting products related to events effectively supervised by recognized sports governing bodies with robust codes of conduct against insider betting. The reinstatement of WBA betting products in Ontario requires operators to demonstrate effective event supervision by the WBA aligned with regulatory standards.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO Registrar and CEO, emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity safeguards to ensure fair play in sporting events. The AGCO looks forward to reinstating betting on WBA events once adequate measures against match-fixing and insider betting are implemented.
Comparison with Previous Actions
This suspension is reminiscent of the 2022 suspension of UFC betting in Ontario due to similar concerns. The UFC subsequently amended policies and protocols, leading to the reinstatement of betting in the province.
The AGCO’s directive underscores the critical need for robust integrity safeguards in sports betting. Ontario residents are expected to have confidence in the fairness of sporting events and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight. The suspension of WBA betting highlights ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity and transparency of sports wagering in Ontario’s online gambling market.