FBI snuffs out FullTiltPoker.com, other major MMA sponsors
PokerStars.com, FullTiltPoker.com and AbsolutePoker.com were today seized by the FBI. The owners of the sites have been charged with fraud…
PokerStars.com, FullTiltPoker.com and AbsolutePoker.com were today seized by the FBI. The owners of the sites have been charged with fraud and illegal gambling.
The shutdown could have a substantial impact in the world of mixed martial arts as leading companies in the online poker industry have traditionally invested heavily in the sponsorship of fighters, and even entire promotions.
Poker website sponsorships are not currently allowed in the UFC or Bellator Fighting Championships, but Full Tilt has been a title sponsor in Strikeforce and several regional promotions in the U.S. and Canada.
Civil money-laundering charges were also filed, and the government is said to be seeking $3 billion from the companies in money-laundering penalties. Some 76 involved bank accounts have been seized.
Managers react to the action – Sam Spira, co-owner (with Randy Couture) of Xtreme Couture management.
” Full Tilt was one of the remaining pro-fighter sponsors that has strongly supported MMA over the past few years. The importance of the ongoing interplay between supporters and fans of poker and supporters and fans of MMA cannot be underestimated.”
Ken Pavia, MMAAgents.
“The online poker companies don’t have a complete handle on it at this time, but they’re doing their due diligence to find out what the full impact is. In the short-term, it will severely impact fighters’ sponsor revenue, which traditionally matched their show pay for our televised clients. I would venture to say the poker industry is equal to apparel industry as the No. 1 sponsor of fighters outside the UFC.”
Jason Genet, Magnetic MMA
“The poker sponsorships that have been allowed in the UFC and other organizations are actually compliant. They are for learning or entertainment purposes – not wagering. Most of the top organizations have a sponsorship vetting process that protects the athletes.”