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The MGM Grand will be hosting the biggest boxing event in more than a decade – Mayweather-Pacquiao – May 2. But if you plan on being in Vegas to watch the fight from another hotel/casino property that does not contain the MGM name, good luck.
MGM is reportedly blocking other properties from showing the fight, courtesy of an exclusivity deal. That means no fights shown in the rooms, bars and – more importantly perhaps – the sportsbooks.
The obvious concern is that Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather, Jr. is expected to generate some of the heaviest betting volume of the year. Customers will be looking to place their wagers in one of the dozens of Las Vegas sportsbooks with hopes of actually watching the bout. You will be better off watching the fight from your local sports bar – outside of Sin City.
From TMZ.com:
We contacted several non-MGM properties which confirmed the blockage -- and a rep for a major rival hotel told us, "We aren't able to air the fight, that's true. And our guests won't be able to have it in-room either. It's a contract the MGM has. Unfortunately, it blacks out non-MGM properties."
MGM does offer 14 properties in Vegas where one will still be able to watch the fight. Those, of course, are likely to all feature overflowing standing room only crowds where viewing will be close to impossible.
- Mary Montgomery, Gambling911.com
