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Casino Rabona has announced it has inked a brand ambassador agreement with boxing icon Mike Tyson, announcing branded live casino games and exclusive streams

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Premium sportsbook brand and online casino, Rabona, has announced the appointment of former boxing champion Mike Tyson as its new brand ambassador.

Through this newly signed partnership with the boxer who reigned as the undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990, players will be offered exclusive Tyson-branded bonuses and livestreams that will successfully blend the boxing legend with casino gaming thrills.

“Iron Mike” to Join Rabona’s Monthly Twitch and Kick Livestreams

The former pro boxer who competed between 1985 and 2005 will introduce his unparalleled passion and charisma to the online casino’s players, engaging them via livestreams on Rabona’s official Twitch and Kick channels every month.

These streams will display Tyson playing the casino’s industry-leading games while recounting exclusive takes from his impressive boxing career and sharing his expertise on gambling. 

As explained by Rabona’s public relations director, Mike Varius, the casino is fully focused on offering “legendary experiences,” calling Tyson the best person to represent them in his quality of a living legend. 

Varius also spoke about the former boxer’s “dynamic presence and genuine love for gaming,” both of which deeply resonate with the casino’s brand ethos. 

Users can expect to experiment with “championship-level engagement” that will be fueled by Tyson’s unparalleled energy.  

Players Can Expect Bonus Plays, Giveaways, and More

Besides the excitement of having one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time join them, the collaboration will also attract a series of exciting perks for registered players at Rabona.

The list includes access to exclusive bonus plays including the Iron Bonus, which is a risk-free bonus of up to €100 dedicated to both new and existing users, giveaways, and additional surprises that have not been revealed so far.

Tyson took the news to his Instagram account on February 5, praising Rabona’s ability to stand out “with its commitment to offering an adrenaline-packed gaming journey.” Tyson compared this commitment to his determination to give his all in the ring, expressing excitement to carry the same level of “intensity and spirit” to the online gaming world next to the casino. 

Rabona’s innovative approach in terms of sportsbook and online casino gameplay is based on state-of-the-art gamification features, eye-catching aesthetics, and an excellent user-friendly interface that enables easy browsing.

Besides the impressive pre-match and live betting markets in its innovative online sportsbook, with excellent odds on a range of sports, Rabona players can also enjoy the freshest releases from industry-leading providers.

In November 2022, Tyson became BRBET’s brand ambassador for Brazil.

-Mk Ssports

Despite the hazards linked to extended exposure to smoke, the existing regulations allow smoking in 25% of the gaming floor

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Atlantic City, known for its vibrant casinos and bustling nightlife, has long been a hub for those seeking their luck at the card tables or slot machines. However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a persistent issue that has been plaguing the city’s workforce for years: secondhand smoke.

Advocates Emphasize Worker Well-being Over Financial Concerns

A group of casino dealers, led by individuals like Pete Naccarelli, Nicole Vitola, and Lamont White, have spearheaded a movement called Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) aiming to outlaw smoking within the confines of the city’s gambling establishments. Their efforts have gained momentum, with workers coming together to demand a healthier work environment.

For Naccarelli, who has spent 27 years in the casino industry, dealing with the constant presence of secondhand smoke has taken its toll. He describes dealing with a table full of smokers as “torture,” highlighting the physical and mental strain it inflicts on him and his colleagues, as reported by the HuffPost. 

Despite the risks associated with prolonged exposure to smoke, the current regulations permit smoking on 25% of the gaming floor, leaving many workers feeling helpless and unprotected.

The push for a smoking ban in Atlantic City’s casinos is not a new endeavor. Similar initiatives have been met with resistance from casino operators, citing potential revenue losses and job cuts.

However, advocates argue that the well-being of workers should take precedence over financial considerations. They stress the need for a comprehensive ban to ensure a smoke-free environment for all employees.

Labor Union Rifts Emerge Amid Atlantic City Smoking Ban Debate

The debate surrounding the smoking issue has also revealed rifts within the city’s labor unions. While some unions, like the United Auto Workers, have thrown their support behind the ban, others, such as Local 54, have expressed concerns about the economic implications. Despite differing opinions, workers remain united in their pursuit of a healthier workplace.

Legislators in Trenton have taken notice of the workers’ demands, with a bill to ban smoking in casinos making progress in the state Senate.

However, challenges remain as lobbying efforts intensify, reflecting the complex interplay between public health, economic interests, and political dynamics.

As the debate continues, casino workers like Naccarelli, Vitola, and White remain steadfast in their resolve to enact change. For them, it is not just about fighting for a smoke-free environment. It is about fighting for their lives. And as they rally for their cause, they hope that Atlantic City will soon become a beacon of progress in the ongoing battle against secondhand smoke.

-Mk Ssports

Holding its grand ceremony, Ochopee\’s new casino will open for visitors, offering 150 of the newest slot machines, along with other amenities

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Last year, the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians, one of the federally recognized tribes in Florida, announced the start of the development of its newest venue, the Little Trail Casino located in Ochopee. After half a year of development, the Miccosukee Tribe confirmed that its new premium gaming location is expected to open its doors to visitors later this month.

The Little Trail Casino will hold its grand opening ceremony next week on February 14, 2024. The new casino is located on I-75, exit 49 and Snake Road and promises exceptional experiences for its visitors. Little Trail Casino is next to the Miccosukee Service Plaza and will offer some 8,500 square feet of entertainment space.

Talbert Cypress, the Tribe’s chairman, who was recently cited by Indian Gaming, revealed that the Miccosukee Tribe is thrilled to confirm the opening of the Little Trail Casino, an achievement that was completed in collaboration with gambling industry stakeholders and tribal members. “This marks an exhilarating start to our next phase, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to this unique experience,” he added.

“We are excited to celebrate this significant milestone alongside our tribal members and numerous key stakeholders who have played a crucial role in our journey.“

Talbert Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee TribeLittle Trail Casino Visitors Can Expect Unrivaled Entertainment

Visitors at the Little Trail Casino can expect action-packed entertainment, fun and lucrative jackpots. The new premier casino location will offer 150 of the newest slot machines.

The non-smoking venue stands out with its elegant design, completed in collaboration with the leading architecture and engineering design firm, CPH. On the other hand, for the construction of the Little Trail Casino, the Tribe joined forces with 2 Brothers Contracting LLC, a Florida-based construction company.

Ochopee’s new casino will be open seven days a week. The working hours for the Little Trail Casino are between 8 AM and 12 AM. Besides a gaming floor, the casino will feature additional amenities such as a bar that will offer a wide range of wines and beers.

-Mk Ssports

This positive outlook comes on the heels of a record-breaking month for gaming revenue in December, with figures surpassing expectations

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The recent surge in baccarat volume has economists and industry experts buzzing with optimism about the future of high-end properties along the famed Las Vegas Strip.

High-Stakes Baccarat Fuels Record Revenue for Las Vegas Strip

According to insights provided by Wall Street analyst John DeCree, the Las Vegas Strip witnessed an unprecedented $905 million in gaming revenue in December alone, marking an 11.2% increase from the same period last year.

Baccarat, renowned for its popularity among high rollers and international visitors, played a significant role in achieving this milestone. The baccarat win soared to $218.7 million, representing a staggering 50.1% increase compared to previous figures.

Additionally, baccarat volume reached $839.5 million, the highest post-pandemic level, indicating a robust resurgence in high-stakes gaming.

DeCree emphasized that the notable performance of baccarat in November, coinciding with the inaugural Formula One race in Las Vegas, further solidifies the positive trend for upscale properties.

DeCree stated that the table win had been buoyed by a strong baccarat win and emphasized that the positive trends in baccarat for both months served as indicators of optimism for higher-end properties on the Las Vegas Strip.

Record Slot Wins and Local Market Surge Propel Las Vegas to Success

The momentum extended beyond baccarat, with slot win on the Las Vegas Strip hitting an all-time high of $446 million, marking a 10.1% year-over-year increase. Notably, despite a slight decrease in hold, the handle reached a remarkable $6.2 billion, setting a new precedent for the region.

Table win also experienced significant growth, increasing by 12.3% year over year, supported by a 5.5% rise in table drop.

In addition to the Strip’s success, the local market saw a boost in gaming revenue, largely attributed to the recent opening of the Durango Casino & Resort in southwest Las Vegas.

DeCree noted a 6.5% year-over-year increase in December gaming revenue for local casinos, with the Durango property playing a pivotal role in driving these figures.

The positive performance was not confined to gaming revenue alone. Visitation to Las Vegas saw a 2.7% increase year over year in December, culminating in an annual total of 40.8 million visitors, surpassing the previous year’s figures. Furthermore, average daily room rates on the Las Vegas Strip experienced a notable uptick, rising by 5.8% year over year in December and 12.3% for the entire year.

While the data signals a promising trajectory for the region, DeCree urged caution against drawing definitive conclusions from a single month’s figures. Nevertheless, the overarching sentiment remains optimistic, with analysts eagerly anticipating continued growth and prosperity for Las Vegas’s renowned hospitality and gaming industry.

-Mk Ssports

Based on the latest analysis by S&P Global Ratings, Macau\’s gaming operators are actively considering postponing their plans to refinance their debt maturing in 2025

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Macau’s gaming operators are facing the challenge of upcoming debt maturities, with significant obligations slated for 2025. However, amidst the financial landscape shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic, these operators seem prepared to handle the situation with cautious optimism.

Macau Casinos Delay Debt Refinancing for 2025, Eyeing Improved Cash Flow

According to recent insights from S&P Global Ratings, Macau’s gaming operators are strategizing to delay refinancing plans for their 2025 debt maturities. This delay is primarily aimed at capitalizing on potential reductions in interest rates and anticipating improved cash flow from the Macau market in the coming quarters.

Melissa Long, director of corporate ratings at S&P Global, highlighted that operators are likely to wait before addressing these 2025 maturities, expecting a favorable shift in interest rates and enhanced cash flow generation from the Macau market. Long emphasized the operators’ intention to prudently manage larger maturity needs while actively seeking to preserve liquidity positions.

While some operators are expected to face current debt obligations in the near term, S&P Global remains optimistic about its ability to maintain sufficient cash resources to sustain liquidity positions.

The agency also anticipates continued support from banks, buoyed by the market’s robust recovery and operators’ improved cash flow and leverage metrics.

MGM China and Wynn Macau Set to Weather 2024 Debt Maturities

MGM China and Wynn Macau, specifically mentioned in S&P Global’s analysis, are deemed well-positioned to handle their 2024 maturities without the need for immediate refinancing. This financial stability is attributed to their existing cash reserves and access to revolving credit facilities.

The debt landscape in Macau’s gaming sector reflects the broader trend of recovery in the region’s gambling industry. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Macau’s casino revenue is projected to surpass pre-COVID levels for the first time in 2024. Factors such as increased outbound Chinese travel and strong performance during the Lunar New Year break contribute to this optimistic outlook.

The shift towards mass-market gambling following regulatory crackdowns on VIP junkets indicates a strategic adaptation among casino operators. This transition, coupled with ongoing improvements in cash flow and market share, underscores the resilience of Macau’s gaming industry.

Looking ahead, the positive trajectory of Macau’s casino revenue and the gradual easing of pandemic-related restrictions bode well for the sector’s long-term stability. While challenges persist, including looming debt maturities and competitive pressures, Macau’s gaming operators appear poised to navigate these obstacles with resilience and adaptability.

-Mk Ssports

The bills, supported by Richmond lawmakers like Del. Betsy Carr and state Sen. Lamont Bagby, are a direct response to Richmond residents rejecting a casino proposal twice

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In a decisive move following Richmond voters’ rejection of a casino proposal for the second time, Virginia lawmakers have unanimously voted to permanently remove the city from consideration as a potential casino site.

Richmond’s Removal from Casino Eligibility Sealed by 100-0 House Vote

The Virginia General Assembly, in a bipartisan effort, passed bills aimed at eliminating Richmond from the list of eligible host cities for a casino, reported 8News WRIC. The legislative action saw overwhelming support, with the House of Delegates voting 100-0 and the state Senate following suit with a 40-0 vote in favor of advancing the legislation.

The proposed bills, championed by lawmakers representing Richmond, including Del. Betsy Carr and state Sen. Lamont Bagby, signify a response to the clear stance expressed by the people of Richmond through their rejection of the casino proposal.

Sen. Bagby emphasized the importance of representing the will of the citizens, stating that he was voted in by the people of the city of Richmond and that they had expressed their disapproval twice.

The legislative move seeks to amend the state code, which previously listed cities like Portsmouth, Norfolk, Danville, and Bristol as eligible casino locations but had criteria that could potentially include Richmond.

The Proposed Legislation Follows Two Referendum Rejections

If signed into law by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, the bills will effectively remove Richmond from consideration by eliminating language that previously made the city eligible. Criteria such as population size, property tax exemptions, and poverty rates would no longer apply to Richmond.

According to estimates from the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service of the University of Virginia, Richmond’s population exceeded 230,000 in 2018, surpassing the threshold for eligibility.

Additionally, more than a quarter of the assessed value of real estate in the city was exempt from property taxes in fiscal year 2018.

The decision comes after Richmond faced disappointment in its casino endeavors, with voters rejecting the proposal by a significant margin in both 2021 and November 2023 referendums.

Meanwhile, the legislative process continues to unfold, with discussions around Petersburg’s eligibility for a casino still ongoing. Plans for a casino referendum in Fairfax County have been postponed until 2025. While there has been no immediate response from Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney‘s spokesperson regarding the legislative development, the ongoing 2024 General Assembly session is scheduled to conclude on March 9.

-Mk Ssports

The robbery occurred during the evening of July 19, 2023, as perpetrators forcibly entered the subterranean gambling establishment

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Two individuals have been apprehended by FBI agents for their alleged involvement in a violent armed robbery at an illicit gambling establishment in Flushing, Queens, last July. The incident, which resulted in one person sustaining gunshot wounds, has led to charges against Jamel Berry from Astoria and Zhong Wang, a Chinese national.

Robbery at Flushing Gambling Den Leaves Victim Injured

According to authorities, the robbery took place on the night of July 19, 2023, when Berry and his accomplices, including two individuals who are currently at large, stormed into the underground gambling den located on Avery Avenue. Prior to the robbery, Wang allegedly disabled the building’s power supply to aid in the execution of the crime, as reported by the Astoria Post.

Once inside, the perpetrators assaulted one individual with a metal pipe and brandished a firearm, coercing others to comply with their demands. The group then made off with approximately $3,000 in cash before firing a shot that struck an innocent bystander in the abdomen. The victim was rushed to New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital for medical attention and has since survived the ordeal.

Investigators managed to retrieve surveillance footage capturing Berry, Wang, and their accomplices congregating at a nearby location before proceeding to the gambling den. The footage also captured the suspects fleeing the scene following the robbery.

Astoria Man and Chinese National Detained Pending Further Legal Proceedings

During a hearing at Brooklyn federal court, prosecutors argued that both Berry and Wang posed a significant flight risk if released. They emphasized Wang’s ties to China, pointing out the absence of an extradition treaty between the United States and China, which could complicate efforts to bring him to justice if he were to flee.

Consequently, Wang was ordered to be held in custody, while Berry was placed under home detention pending further legal proceedings. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against them, with negotiations for potential plea deals reportedly underway.

This is not the first encounter with law enforcement for Jamel Berry, as he was previously convicted in 2020 for attempted criminal possession of a weapon.

The incident sheds light on the prevalence of illegal gambling dens in neighborhoods like Flushing, which have historically been targeted by armed robbers seeking easy money.

Despite efforts to crack down on such activities, the allure of illicit gambling continues to attract criminal elements, posing a challenge for law enforcement agencies tasked with maintaining public safety.

-Mk Ssports

Senate Bill 628 seeks to redefine the criteria for a casino host city

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The plan to establish Petersburg, Virginia, as the state’s fifth city to host a casino has inched one step closer to realization. The odds have increased as the Virginia Senate cleared a bill that would possibly greenlight a casino in the city.

Senate Bill 628 seeks to redefine the criteria for a host city and discard the existing population threshold. Additional adjustments to tax-exempted real estate, poverty and unemployment rate criteria could make a Petersburg casino something more than just a dream.

Senate Bill 628 has some influential backers, increasing its chance of success. Proposed by Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas and Senator Lashrecse Aird, the bill continues the legacy of Morrissey and Del. Kim Taylor who previously championed the cause.

Senate Bill 628 Secured Unanimous Support in the Senate

Senate Bill 628 received unanimous support from the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee earlier this week. Now, the bill has also cleared the Senate, securing the approval of all 40 Senators.

After passing the Senate by a landslide, the measure will now go to the House of Delegates. If passed it would move to Governor Glenn Youngkin’s desk for final approval. While Youngkin has not been very vocal on his thoughts on the matter, many believe that he would sign the bill into law.

If so, this would potentially end a several years-long battle to allow Petersburg to have a casino. The initial proposal was launched in 2021 but failed to gain much support. Since then, several efforts have been made to turn Petersburg into a gambling destination.

In the meantime, the Petersburg City Council allowed City Manager John Altman to inquire about potential interest from casino operators.

In December 2022, the Petersburg City Council voted in favor of a contract with The Cordish Companies to build a $1.4 billion casino resort facility. However, this agreement attracted a lot of animosity, which is why the Petersburg City Council now plans to instead hold a competitive bidding process.

-Mk Ssports

A new report reveals that the owner of the famous MLB franchise released details regarding a massive $8 billion project for the area, bringing parks and athletic fields

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Considering the resounding success of mobile sports betting in New York, leading industry operators showed interest in securing one of the state’s three new downstate casino licenses. The fierce competition was joined by industry giants, including Wynn Resorts, Las Vegas Sands, MGM Resorts International and several other bidders. Overall, nearly a dozen bidders joined the race for a downstate license, acknowledging the exponential potential of such a victory.

Steve Cohen, the New York Mets’ owner, also joined the bidding for a downstate casino license in New York. Details regarding his intention to build a casino near Citi Field, his team’s home stadium, emerged last year. Upon announcing that he decided to join the race, Cohen said that the new casino is expected to deliver entertaining experiences for Mets fans before and after home games. He also did not rule out that such a venue can help propel interest in the area, attracting more visitors than before.

Now a new report reveals that the Mets owner is trying to spice things up for his casino license bid in New York. As announced by Spectrum News NY1, earlier this week, Cohen’s Point72 Asset Management presented a multi-billion-dollar plan for the development of the area near City Field. Besides the casino, Cohen reportedly plans to introduce significant improvements to the area, including five acres of athletic fields and 20 acres of park space using City Field’s parking lots.

Moreover, the ambitious plan seeks to create easy access to Willets Point station. Further improvements to the area include investments in senior and youth programs, as well as additional health care, legal and immigration services for the community in the area. Reportedly the project has a price tag of $8 billion.

The Casino Proposal Is Important for Communities in the Area

While undoubtedly, there are positive sides to the casino proposal, not everyone agrees. At a town hall meeting on Wednesday, New York Sen. Jessica Ramos spoke about the importance of the casino bid in the area for communities. “I still think not enough community members know about either proposal or that there is this possibility of a casino coming, and our community does deserve to know,” she explained.

Sen. Ramos is among the decision makers for the casino bid considering that she will be appointing one out of five members within a special community advisory committee that will vote for or against the proposed project.

Cohen became the owner of the Mets after a deal for a staggering $2.4 billion back in 2021. At the time, he purchased the famous MLB franchise from the Wilpon and Katz families ahead of the start of the MLB season.

-Mk Ssports

The launch of betfirstcasino.be will solidify Betsson’s presence in the market, allowing it to further capitalize on betFIRST’s popularity in Belgium

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BetFIRST, a leader in Belgian sports wagering, unveiled a new online casino brand called betfirstcasino.be. The new gambling site was launched in partnership with Groupe Partouche’s Middelkerke Casino.

According to the announcement, betfirstcasino.be leverages Middelkerke Casino’s recently-acquired A+ casino license to offer online gambling in Belgium. Moreover, the launch aligns with betFIRST’s ambition to solidify its leadership position in the country.

Betfirstcasino.be players can expect to find a variety of exciting betting offerings, including slot games, table games and live casino options.

BetFIRST was acquired by the Betsson Group last year as the latter company sought expansion in the Belgian betting market. The $130 million deal secured Betsson an entry into Belgium, putting it in charge of one of the oldest and most trusted betting companies in the country.

The launch of betfirstcasino.be will solidify Betsson’s presence in the market, allowing it to further capitalize on betFIRST’s popularity in Belgium.

Betsson Is Looking Forward to Solidifying Its Presence in Belgium

Speaking of Betsson, Jesper Svensson, the company’s chief executive officer, said that his team is proud to have acquired betFIRST and is looking forward to scaling up the company. The new online casino will further increase betFIRST’s value while allowing Betsson to form an important relationship with Groupe Partouche.

BetFIRST’s chief executive officer, Alexis Murphy, also commented on the launch of the new brand, saying that it will reinforce his company’s presence in Belgium, allowing it to tap into the lucrative iGaming market.

betFIRST already boasts the best-performing and fastest sports-betting app in the Belgian market, and we aim to replicate this success with the most extensive mobile casino offering in Belgium.

Alexis Murphy, CEO, betFIRST

Finally, Groupe Partouche’s chief executive officer, Fabrice Paire, shared his thoughts, saying that betfirstcasino.be is poised to become a great addition to the group’s portfolio in the country. Paire pointed out that Groupe Partouche is already working on a landmark casino in Middelkerke that is poised to become the “most iconic casino in Belgium.”

The CEO concluded that the French gambling group is looking forward to conquering both the retail and online sectors in Belgium.

-Mk Ssports