Betting on Tyson vs. Paul Fight Unavailable in Several States

08.11.2024

The upcoming fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, scheduled for November 15, will not be available for betting in multiple U.S. states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Vermont.

Where You Can Bet on the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul Fight?

Bets on the Tyson-Paul fight, set to take place on November 15 in Arlington, Texas, will be permitted in some states but banned in others.

Several states have chosen to disallow betting on the fight due to unconventional rules, such as two-minute rounds and 14-ounce gloves, as well as the age difference between the fighters.

States allowing bets include:

  • Arizona
  • Connecticut
  • Illinois
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Massachusetts
  • Nebraska
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Washington

States that have banned bets on the fight:

  • Colorado
  • New York
  • Pennsylvania
  • Vermont

Additionally, DraftKings’ Head of Sportsbook Operations, Johnny Avello, stated that a total of six states will not accept bets on the Tyson-Paul fight, with two remaining states yet to be confirmed.

Reasons for Betting Restrictions on the Tyson vs. Paul Fight

Pennsylvania, Vermont, Colorado, and New York cited the fight’s nonstandard conditions—such as two-minute rounds and 14-ounce gloves, whereas typical rounds are three minutes and use 10-ounce gloves—as reasons for the ban.

In Pennsylvania and New York, the fight has been classified as an exhibition rather than a professional boxing match, leading to the decision against betting. Pennsylvania also highlighted the 31-year age difference between Tyson (58) and Paul (27) as a factor.

While Massachusetts initially considered a ban, the state ultimately permitted betting on the fight. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) consulted with other U.S. states to gauge their stance and ultimately decided against banning bets, reasoning that a prohibition could drive Massachusetts residents toward illegal sportsbooks.