Action News 5 documented the demolition, showing heavy equipment tearing through the property that first welcomed guests in 1994. While the building itself had already ceased operations, seeing it reduced to rubble carries symbolic weight for both longtime visitors and the local community.

Tunica’s rise during the 1990s was remarkable. At its peak, the area rivaled many of the country’s largest gaming markets, attracting millions of visitors from Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, and surrounding states. Casinos generated thousands of jobs while hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues flourished alongside the gaming industry.

That landscape has steadily changed over the past two decades. As neighboring states introduced commercial casinos, tribal gaming, sports betting, and additional gambling options, Tunica gradually lost much of its regional monopoly. Today, only five casinos remain where more than ten once operated, illustrating how competitive the American casino industry has become.

The demolition of Sam’s Town is therefore more than the removal of an aging building. It reflects the broader evolution of online and offshore casino gaming across the United States, where regional markets continue adjusting to new competition and changing consumer habits.

Offshore Casino Options

While land-based casino markets continue evolving, online gambling has become increasingly popular among American players looking for more gaming options than those available locally.

Only a handful of states—including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island, and West Virginia—currently regulate real-money online casinos. Residents elsewhere often have no access to licensed domestic online slots or table games despite having nearby retail casinos.

As a result, many U.S. players choose the most trusted offshore casino sites that have accepted American customers for years. These international operators typically offer:

• Thousands of online slot machines
• Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and craps
• Live dealer casino games
• Video poker
• Progressive jackpots
• Cryptocurrency banking
• Mobile-friendly platforms

Well-established names such as those featured in our OffshoreBettingSites.net reviews continue serving many U.S. players by offering broad game libraries alongside integrated sportsbooks and poker rooms.

That doesn’t necessarily replace the experience of walking through a casino resort. Large casino properties still provide restaurants, concerts, hotel accommodations, nightlife, and social gaming experiences that cannot be replicated online. However, online gaming has undoubtedly expanded consumer choice, particularly for players who live hundreds of miles from a commercial casino.

The growth of offshore gaming also reflects changing entertainment preferences. Many players now value convenience, mobile accessibility, and around-the-clock gaming as much as traditional casino travel.

More Casino Closures Around the USA

Sam’s Town is far from the only casino property to disappear in recent years.

Tunica itself has experienced multiple closures over the past decade, including Resorts Casino Tunica, Tunica Roadhouse, Harrah’s Tunica, and several smaller properties that once helped establish the region as a gaming powerhouse.

Elsewhere, operators have also been consolidating operations.

In Washington, Maverick Gaming recently announced additional casino and cardroom closures as part of its ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring, eliminating more than 100 jobs across the state. The company cited financial pressures and restructuring efforts as it reduced its physical footprint.

Several older regional casinos around the country have likewise faced redevelopment, ownership changes, or permanent closure as operators focus investment on larger destination resorts and higher-performing markets.

Meanwhile, many newer casinos are opening in states that previously offered little or no commercial gaming. Arkansas, Virginia, Nebraska, and other jurisdictions have expanded casino gambling over the past several years, redistributing customers who once traveled long distances to established destinations like Tunica.

Sam’s Town helped define an era when Tunica was considered one of America’s premier gaming destinations. Its demolition closes the book on that history, but it also highlights how quickly the gaming landscape can change. For longtime visitors, the familiar western-themed casino may now be gone, yet its role in Mississippi’s gaming boom remains an important part of American casino history.

Sources:

• Action News 5

A recent news report highlighted the growing disconnect between fan enthusiasm and Texas law. While residents in dozens of other states can legally wager on World Cup matches through regulated sportsbooks, Texans remain on the sidelines unless they travel to another jurisdiction or explore offshore sportsbooks that accept eligible U.S. players.

That gap has become increasingly noticeable as the United States, Canada, and Mexico host the largest FIFA World Cup in history. Expanded to 48 nations and 104 matches, the tournament has generated record television audiences and unprecedented engagement across North America.

Texas Remains a Major Sports Market Without Legal Online Betting

Texas has never lacked passionate sports fans. Between NFL betting, NBA, MLB, college football, and now the World Cup, the state consistently ranks among America’s biggest sports markets. Yet legislative efforts to legalize online sports betting have repeatedly stalled, leaving neighboring states and much of the country to capitalize on wagering revenue instead.

Houston has welcomed more than 500,000 visitors through tournament-related events during the opening weeks, while Arlington continues hosting some of the competition’s highest-profile matches. Dallas Stadium (formerly AT&T Stadium under FIFA naming rules) is scheduled to host more World Cup matches than any other venue in the tournament.

Industry observers say events like the World Cup naturally increase betting curiosity. Fans aren’t simply looking at final scores anymore; they’re discussing player props, match totals, outright champions, Golden Boot odds, and live in-play betting throughout every match.

Across the United States, sportsbooks have expanded World Cup betting options significantly compared with previous tournaments. Legal operators are offering hundreds of betting markets for each knockout-round match, reflecting the growing demand among American soccer fans.

For Texas residents, however, those regulated gambling sites generally remain unavailable unless they travel to states where sports betting is authorized.

Offshore Sportsbooks Continue Serving Many U.S. Players

Because regulated sportsbooks operate on a state-by-state basis, many American bettors continue using offshore sportsbook apps permitted under their international licenses.

Long-established brands, including those in our OffshoreBettingSites.net reviews, remain among the best-known offshore operators serving U.S. players. While each site differs in available markets, banking methods, and promotions, they typically provide comprehensive World Cup coverage that includes:

• Match winner markets
• Goal totals
• Both teams to score
• Player props
• Tournament futures
• Live betting throughout each match

Many also support cryptocurrency deposits alongside traditional payment methods, giving players additional banking flexibility.

Compared with domestic sportsbooks, offshore operators often make accounts available to players in states without regulated online betting, including Texas. However, players should always verify a site’s licensing, banking policies, withdrawal procedures, and responsible gaming tools before creating an account.

World Cup Betting Momentum Shows No Signs of Slowing

Whether Texas lawmakers eventually revisit sports betting legislation remains uncertain, but consumer interest continues growing with every major sporting event.

The World Cup has demonstrated how quickly soccer has become part of the American sports landscape. Television audiences continue setting new benchmarks, fan zones remain crowded, and online discussions surrounding betting odds have become almost as common as conversations about lineups and tactics.

As the tournament moves into its final stages, attention will likely shift toward future legislative debates as well as continued growth among international sportsbooks serving eligible American customers. Regardless of when Texas changes its position, the 2026 World Cup has shown that demand for sports wagering content is already firmly established.

The new venue represents a major investment in the region, carrying a reported price tag of approximately $360 million. Located near Interstate 88 and across from the Chicago Premium Outlets, the property is far more than a traditional gaming hall. Visitors arriving on opening day were greeted by a full-scale entertainment complex featuring a luxury hotel, a wellness spa, multiple dining concepts, a sportsbook, event space, and an expansive gaming floor.

For longtime residents, the move marks the end of an era. Hollywood Casino Aurora first opened on the Fox River in the early 1990s and became a recognizable part of the city’s downtown landscape. The transition from a riverboat venue to a modern resort reflects broader changes occurring throughout the casino industry, where operators are increasingly focusing on creating complete entertainment experiences rather than relying solely on gaming revenue.

Online Competition Continues to Shape the Industry

While the grand opening has generated excitement, it arrives during a period when consumer gaming habits are evolving rapidly. Many players now split their time between visiting physical casinos and exploring digital alternatives.

In states where online casino gaming remains restricted, some Americans turn to offshore casino sites that accept U.S. players. These sites often advertise extensive game libraries, cryptocurrency payment options, and around-the-clock accessibility. Unlike destination resorts such as Hollywood Casino Aurora, offshore casino sites provide convenience from home but cannot replicate the atmosphere, dining experiences, live entertainment, or social interaction that land-based properties offer.

The comparison highlights a growing divide within the gambling market. Physical resorts compete by delivering experiences that extend beyond gaming, while online operators focus on accessibility and flexibility. For many players, the choice comes down to whether they prefer a weekend escape or instant access from mobile casino apps. Our OffshoreBettingSites.net mobile casino guide details all the advantages of wagering online in comparison to local venues.

Industry analysts suggest that successful casino brands will increasingly need to serve both audiences, blending in-person entertainment with digital engagement strategies as consumer expectations continue to evolve.

A New Landmark for Aurora

Opening day crowds appeared eager to see what the new property had to offer. The facility features more than 1,000 gaming machines, dozens of table games, a retail sportsbook, and a large event center capable of hosting concerts, conferences, weddings, and community gatherings.

For Aurora, the launch represents more than the debut of a casino. It signals the arrival of a new entertainment hub positioned to compete with other regional destinations across Illinois and neighboring states. The combination of gaming, lodging, dining, and wellness amenities gives the property a broader appeal than its riverboat predecessor ever could.

Whether visitors arrive for a night of gaming, a spa weekend, or a special event, the new Hollywood Casino Aurora is poised to become one of the most talked-about entertainment destinations in the Chicago suburbs. As the first guests walk through its doors, city officials and business leaders alike will be watching closely to see how this ambitious investment reshapes Aurora’s tourism landscape in the years ahead.

Sources:

• Chicago Tribune

At the heart of the proposal is a crackdown on the dual-currency model used by many sweepstakes platforms. These sites typically offer virtual coins alongside redeemable credits that can be exchanged for prizes or cash equivalents. SB1589 would redefine such systems as representing “something of value,” effectively bringing them under Oklahoma’s gambling laws.

Lawmakers argue the change is necessary to eliminate what they view as a legal gray area. By classifying these domestic platforms as online gambling, the state aims to align enforcement with existing restrictions that currently limit legal gambling primarily to tribal casinos, horse racing, and the lottery.

If enacted, the measure could take effect as early as November 2026, potentially making Oklahoma one of several US gambling states to outlaw sweepstakes casinos this year.

Wider Crackdown Signals Industry Shift

Oklahoma’s effort is part of a broader national trend. States such as Indiana and Maine have already implemented similar restrictions, while others are exploring legislation targeting the same dual-currency systems.

What sets SB1589 apart is its wide-reaching scope. The bill not only targets operators; it also extends liability to affiliates, payment processors, geolocation services, and even media partners that promote sweepstakes platforms. This expansive approach suggests regulators are aiming to dismantle the entire ecosystem supporting these sites rather than focusing solely on end providers.

Industry observers note that this could serve as a blueprint for other states looking to enforce stricter online gambling rules. By closing operational loopholes, Oklahoma may effectively limit sweepstakes brands’ ability to adapt or relocate within U.S. markets.

At the same time, the legislation appears to protect tribal gaming interests, which dominate the state’s legal gambling sector. Tribal operators remain central to Oklahoma’s gaming economy, and the bill reinforces their position by excluding non-tribal online competitors.

Offshore Casinos Gain Attention Among Players

As regulatory pressure mounts, many players are beginning to look beyond domestic options. Sweepstakes casinos have historically filled the gap in states like Oklahoma, where regulators do not authorize real-money online casinos.

However, if SB1589 becomes law, that gap could widen significantly. Offshore sites, such as those at Offshorebettingsites.net, may become more visible alternatives for players seeking online gaming experiences. Unlike sweepstakes platforms, offshore sites typically operate with traditional real-money models, offering direct deposits, withdrawals, and a broader range of games.

The comparison is notable. Sweepstakes casinos rely on promotional frameworks and free-to-play entry methods to remain compliant with U.S. laws, while offshore casinos function under international licensing regimes that allow real-money wagering. This difference means offshore platforms often provide more straightforward gameplay, but they also operate outside U.S. regulatory protections.

For players, the shift presents both opportunity and risk. Offshore casinos can offer convenience and variety, yet they lack the consumer safeguards found in regulated domestic markets. Meanwhile, the potential disappearance of sweepstakes casinos in states like Oklahoma may leave users weighing these trade-offs more carefully than ever.

As SB1589 continues its legislative journey, one thing is clear: the U.S. online gaming landscape is evolving rapidly. Whether through tighter regulations or increased reliance on offshore options, the balance between accessibility and oversight is being rewritten in real time.

Sources:

• Senate Bill 1589 

Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is currently under NCAA investigation after reports surfaced that he placed thousands of wagers through a mobile gambling platform over several years.

The situation escalated when Sorsby stepped away from football to enter a residential treatment program for gambling addiction. While there is no evidence that he attempted to influence game outcomes, NCAA rules strictly prohibit athletes from betting on sports, making the case a serious eligibility issue.

The story also intersects with the modern realities of college athletics. Sorsby, a high-profile transfer with a multi-million-dollar NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal, represents a new era where athletes have both financial opportunities and increased exposure to betting markets.

Online Sports Gambling in the USA

The United States has seen a surge in local and online sports betting since the repeal of PASPA in 2018. Many states now allow regulated sportsbooks, offering consumer protections, identity verification, and responsible gaming tools. However, offshore gambling platforms are also available in most US states.

Unlike domestic U.S. operators, offshore sites operate outside federal and state oversight. These platforms often accept U.S. players and provide odds for both domestic and international sporting events.

Cases like Sorsby’s highlight how easily individuals, especially younger demographics, can access sportsbooks like those in our offshore betting sites sportsbook app guide. Reports indicate he made a “steady flurry of small bets” over time, demonstrating how gambling habits can escalate gradually.

The NCAA has already expressed concern over the broader trend. In recent years, dozens of athletes across multiple schools have been investigated for gambling-related violations, with some facing permanent bans from competition.

For regulators and institutions, the challenge is twofold: enforcing rules within organized sports while addressing the wider ecosystem of online betting that extends beyond U.S. jurisdiction.

Why US Bettors Choose Offshore Sportsbooks

U.S. bettors often turn to offshore sportsbooks as an alternative to domestic options, largely due to the flexibility and features these platforms provide. While legality and safety should always be carefully considered, offshore betting sites appeal to some users because they tend to offer fewer restrictions and broader betting opportunities compared to state-regulated books.

• Wider Betting Markets: Offshore sportsbooks often include international sports, niche leagues, and unconventional prop bets that aren’t always available in U.S.-regulated platforms.
• Fewer Location Restrictions: Bettors can typically access offshore sites from anywhere, without being limited to specific states where sports betting is legal.
• Higher Betting Limits: Many offshore books allow larger wagers, which can be attractive to high-stakes bettors.
• More Bonuses and Promotions: These platforms frequently advertise generous signup bonuses and ongoing promotions, sometimes exceeding what regulated books offer.
• Alternative Payment Options: Offshore sportsbooks often support cryptocurrencies and other payment methods that provide added privacy and faster transactions.

What To Do If You Expect Problem Gambling Among Loved Ones

Problem gambling often develops quietly, making early detection difficult. Behavioral changes may include secrecy around finances, frequent discussions about betting, mood swings tied to wins and losses, or borrowing money without a clear explanation.

If you suspect a loved one is struggling, the first step is approaching the situation with calm and understanding. Confrontation or judgment can lead to denial or withdrawal. Instead, focus on expressing concern and offering support.

Encouraging professional help is critical. Treatment programs, like the one Sorsby entered, can provide structured support, including counseling and behavioral therapy. Many organizations also offer confidential helplines and resources tailored to gambling addiction.

Set near Interstate 88 and the Chicago Premium Outlets, the development replaces the long-standing Fox River casino with a sprawling entertainment complex featuring a hotel, spa, event center, and over 1,200 gaming positions.

But beneath the polished floors and celebrity-chef restaurants lies a subtler story: the casino is arriving at a moment when online betting is no longer a side act.

Executives frame the move as a competitive reset. The old riverboat model, charming as it was, struggled against the spread of video gaming terminals and newer casinos across Illinois.

The new Aurora property is designed to compete not just with neighboring venues, but with the growing convenience of placing bets from a couch. And that’s where things get interesting.

Offshore Casino Games: The Invisible Competition

While Aurora’s casino will feature 900 slot machines, 50 table games, and a retail sportsbook, its fiercest competitor may never appear on the skyline.

Offshore casino sites, operating outside of U.S. jurisdiction, have quietly carved out a loyal audience. They offer faster sign-ups, fewer restrictions, and, often, a wider menu of games.

In addition to expanded slot libraries and multiple variations of popular casino games, offshore sites also offer convenience, bigger bonuses, and no geofencing.

Betting Online Meets Brick-and-Mortar Ambition

Aurora’s new casino isn’t ignoring this online shift; it’s leaning into it. The inclusion of a full sportsbook signals a deliberate bridge between physical and digital betting options.

Casinos across the U.S. have begun positioning themselves as experiential anchors rather than standalone gambling hubs. The logic is simple: if online betting offers convenience, casinos must offer an enhanced atmosphere.

Aurora’s approach checks that box. In addition to casino gambling, plans include:

• A 200+ room hotel for extended stays
• A 12,000-square-foot event center for concerts and conferences
• Dining concepts from high-profile chefs, turning wagers into evenings out

Still, the gravitational pull of online betting continues to reshape expectations. Players now want instant games, seamless mobile integration, and the ability to move between platforms without missing a beat.

The most successful brick-and-mortar casinos won’t compete with offshore platforms; they’ll complement them, especially as options like casino apps found at OffshoreBettingSites continue to gain traction among digital-first bettors. Aurora’s new venture, with its sleek design and expanded offerings, is betting on that very idea.

And if the cards fall right, the future gambler may no longer choose between online and in-person play. Instead, they’ll drift seamlessly between both.

Sources:

• Hollywood Casino Aurora

As this proposal advances through the General Assembly, it has drawn both strong support and vocal opposition from residents and local leaders concerned about community impacts ranging from traffic to quality of life.

In parallel, the question of online casino gaming has taken on added significance, with many Virginia residents turning to offshore platforms to satisfy demand for virtual casino play in the absence of comprehensive state-run online gaming options.

Local Virginia Casinos

A bill that would permit a casino in Fairfax County has gained traction in the Virginia legislature, moving closer to a vote in the House of Delegates after passing the Senate.

The legislation, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, would allow county voters to decide in a future referendum whether to authorize construction of a casino and entertainment complex anywhere in Fairfax County. Earlier versions of the proposal confined the site to the Tysons area, but recent amendments removed that restriction, broadening the potential location to the entire county.

Supporters of the measure argue a casino could retain gaming dollars currently spent outside Virginia, particularly at Maryland’s MGM National Harbor,  and generate new tax revenue within the state.

Proponents also point to the potential for job creation and increased tourism that could accompany a large-scale resort. Such arguments resonate with lawmakers seeking alternative revenue sources amid broader economic challenges facing local jurisdictions.

However, that vision is far from universally accepted. Many Fairfax County residents and community groups have expressed strong reservations or outright opposition. Critics highlight concerns about worsening traffic congestion, strain on infrastructure, and potential social costs associated with gambling expansion.

Some residents also noted that local amenities and entertainment options already draw significant visitor traffic, questioning whether a casino would add meaningful value.

Online Casino Options

While the fate of a physical casino in Fairfax County unfolds, Virginians interested in gambling online have increasingly looked to offshore betting sites, internet-based gambling sites licensed outside the United States that accept players from all states, including Virginia.

Offshore casinos typically operate under international jurisdictions and are not regulated by Virginia’s gaming authorities, yet they remain accessible to residents seeking real-money online slots, table games, and live dealer experiences.

Offshore casino sites often entice players with expansive game libraries, generous bonuses, and flexible banking options, including cryptocurrency transactions and traditional payment methods. Many of these platforms advertise thousands of games, rapid payouts, and high welcome-bonus structures that exceed what regulated markets typically offer.

Industry analysts note that in states where domestic online casinos are absent or limited, offshore platforms remain popular among consumers. These sites can offer a wide range of games and promotional incentives that appeal to players of all types.

As legislative discussions about gambling continue in Richmond, including potential future action to allow domestic online casino gaming, offshore platforms will likely remain an important option for Virginians seeking online casino entertainment in the meantime.

The fight pairs a surging, charismatic contender with a beloved veteran known for all-action performances. Pimblett, 23-3, enters the bout undefeated in the UFC (7-0) and confident, telling ESPN he will “retire” Gaethje, a bold claim against one of the sport’s most respected competitors.

Gaethje, 37, remains a fan favorite for his relentless style and willingness to take on tough challenges. His résumé includes classics against Michael Chandler and Max Holloway. His reputation as a “people’s fighter” continues to elevate his profile for UFC 324. Pimblett insists admiration won’t soften his approach. “You’ve got to beat your heroes to become one of them,” he said, noting he expects to finish Gaethje inside three rounds.

As the fighters finalize preparations, the matchup has become one of the most anticipated non-title main events in recent memory. It is also a major driver of early betting activity across offshore sportsbooks that accept U.S. players ages 18 and up.

Pimblett’s Rise vs. Gaethje’s Legacy

Pimblett’s rapid ascent has been a central storyline for bettors tracking UFC 324. The Liverpool native has collected five Performance of the Night bonuses and shown finishing ability on the ground and on the feet. His confidence entering the Gaethje fight, including a knockout prediction, has influenced early prop betting interest, especially among those seeking longshot value on unconventional outcomes.

Gaethje brings a decade of elite experience and a history of thriving in chaotic, high-pressure fights. His durability, power, and willingness to engage in prolonged exchanges have made him a popular pick among bettors who favor proven veterans over rising stars. Offshore sportsbooks report balanced early action, with Pimblett attracting method-of-victory wagers and Gaethje drawing support on the money line from those who believe his experience will neutralize Pimblett’s momentum.

The stylistic contrast, Pimblett’s grappling and creativity versus Gaethje’s pressure and striking, has also shaped Over/Under markets. Many bettors expect a fast-paced fight unlikely to reach the championship rounds, especially since Pimblett claims the bout could end “over in two minutes” if he secures an early takedown.

Early Surge & Prop Odds

Regulated U.S. sportsbooks typically require bettors to be 21 or older and often delay posting lines until official bout confirmations. Offshore sportsbook apps have become the earliest and most accessible option for many American MMA fans. These international platforms routinely publish odds weeks ahead of domestic operators, offering moneylines, round props, submission and knockout markets, and live betting once the event begins.

U.S. bettors, especially younger fans drawn to Pimblett’s personality and Gaethje’s action-heavy style, have driven significant early handle for UFC 324. The fight has already outpaced several recent UFC main events in pre-fight wagering volume, according to industry analysts.

For many bettors, the appeal lies not only in early access but also in the broader prop menus available offshore. With Pimblett predicting a knockout and Gaethje known for highlight-reel finishes, markets such as “fight ends in Round 1,” “Pimblett by submission,” and “Gaethje by KO/TKO” have seen notable activity.

Bout Specials: Knockdown Specials*

• 1+ Knockdowns in the Fight -145
• Justin Gaethje to land a Knock Down +165
• Paddy Pimblett to land a Knock Down +200
• 1+ Knockdowns in Round 1 +290
• 2+ Knockdowns in the Fight +300
• 1+ Knockdowns in Round 2 +400

Method of Victory*

• Justin Gaethje Wins by KO, TKO or DQ +400
• Paddy Pimblett Wins by KO, TKO or DQ +375
• Justin Gaethje Wins by Submission +2800

How Will Fight End*

• KO/TKO/DQ +165
• Submission +145
• Decision +220

*Odds via Bovada

The money line, which is a bet on which fighter will win, shows Joshua as the clear favorite, and the prop bets (bets on specific events within the fight) suggest he could win convincingly.

Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua (Bovada)

• Paul +650, Joshua -1050

Proposition bets, also called ‘props,’ are bets on specific events within the fight, such as how the fight will end, whether there will be knockdowns, or which round the fight might stop. You can find these options by clicking the money line bet at Bovada’s online sportsbook.

Proposition Bets For Paul vs. Joshua

Offshore sports betting sites offer many types of boxing odds. You can find odds for the Paul vs. Joshua fight and for matches around the world. Bettors can combine several prop bets into parlays (single bets that require all selections to win) or use live betting (placing bets during the fight) as the fight happens.

Here are a few prop bets we think offer good value for you.

Will Jake Paul Score a Knockdown?

• Yes +500
• No -900

Will Anthony Joshua Score a Knockdown?

• Yes -600
• No +375

Will The Fight Go The Distance?

• Yes +340
• No -52

Looking at the odds above, I like betting ‘No’ on Joshua scoring a knockdown. Jake Paul has never been knocked down in the ring, and whether you like him or not, he can take a punch. Still, he was knocked out once outside the ring, which broke his nose.

Judgment Day Is Coming

The fight is called Judgment Day. Joshua is about 5 inches taller than Paul. He also has a 6-inch reach advantage. Paul thinks a win will prove he belongs in the sport.

Since his first fight in 2018, Paul has faced criticism for choosing opponents past their prime. He now has a 12-1 record. His only loss came from Tommy Fury, who is Tyson Fury’s half-brother. Paul knocked Fury down in the final round, but the judges still gave Fury the win. This was Paul’s first professional loss.

Anthony Joshua recently beat Jermaine Franklin, Robert Helenius, Otto Wallin, and Francis Ngannou. In his last fight, Daniel Dubois knocked him out in September 2024.

Who Will Win The Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua Fight?

All the online sportsbooks we review list Joshua as the favorite, but Jake Paul has shown an ability to surprise observers. The conventional pick is Joshua, but some bettors might consider Paul for an upset due to the potential payout. Prop bets may also offer opportunities during the fight, especially if circumstances change.

When completed, the full-scale venue will span 445,000 square feet and offer a mix of gaming, dining, and hotel accommodations.

Plans include:

• 70,000+ square feet dedicated to meetings, conventions, and entertainment.
• A 200-room luxury hotel with 25 suites, a resort-style pool, and a fitness center.
• 1,600 slot machines, more than 60 table games, a 22-table poker room, high-limit areas, and a sportsbook.
• Nearly 20 restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, many featuring local partnerships.
• Complimentary parking for guests.

Casino officials emphasized that hiring is underway for hundreds of positions, including dealers, guest services, and security staff.

Penny Parayo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Live! Casino Virginia told the media: “We are thrilled to announce the opening date. Our team has been working hard day and night to welcome guests through our doors for the first time in January.”

Other VA Casinos

There are currently only three licensed casinos in Virginia:

• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
• Rivers Casino Portsmouth
• Caesars Virginia in Danville

You can also find numerous historical horse racing (HHR) machines that operate in smaller venues across the state. While technically not slots, HHR machines often mimic slot machines with pull levers and numerous gameplay titles.

All of the domestic Virginia casinos offer Class III gaming, including table games, slots, poker, and sports betting. Sports betting is the only option currently allowed to operate online within the state’s borders.

Are Online Casinos Legal In Virginia?

Current Virginia law does not permit domestic casinos to operate online; however, no state or federal laws prohibit offshore casinos from accepting VA players.

Offshore betting sites have been servicing the United States since the early 2000s and have become one of the most popular ways to wager online. With real-money payouts, welcome bonuses, reward packages, and other player perks, online betting has far surpassed its domestic counterparts in many areas of the US.

There are only seven states (Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia) that license online casinos to operate. However, these casino sites are geofenced and only offered to players of age who are physically located within the state’s borders.

States that allow offshore betting sites are plentiful due to the lack of federal legislation. However, some states have blocked popular sites to boost their local casino and online sportsbook revenue.