The Netflix Factor: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson delivers record boxing betting figures
JAKE PAUL vs Mike Tyson may have failed to deliver fireworks inside the ring – but it was a complete knockout for the bookies!
Entain’s Sportsbook, which includes leading brands such as BetMGM, Coral and Ladbrokes, has revealed the contest delivered the highest number of bets and the highest total amount staked in its history for a combat event.
Frowned upon by much of the boxing world, the number of bets and the amount staked still managed to surpass the previous highs set by Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk (number of bets placed) and Gervonta Davis vs Ryan Garcia (total amount staked).
Tyson dominated the betting overall with 68% of bettors backing a Tyson victory, while only 17% thought Paul would prevail.
However, the amounts staked on the two fighters were much closer once their gloves touched in Texas, with 50% of the stakes backing a Tyson win, compared to 46% backing Paul.
Watched by 65 million households at its peak, it is believed Netflix’s first venture into live sport broke viewing records to become the most-watched televised boxing match in history, with a reported 50 million also viewing Amanda Serrano vs Katie Taylor on the undercard.
Paul previously had six of the top twenty-five most bet boxing matches in Entain’s history, but his bout with Tyson has smashed the previous record set by Tyson Fury when he fought Oleksandr Usyk in May 2024.
Fury had previously held all three top spots, with his fights with Dillian Whyte and Deontay Wilder rounding off the top three.
Greg Ferris, Managing Director for Sports at Entain, said, “Our trading desks are always ready for an increase in interest from a “celebrity” type fighter, but the impact of Netflix broadcasting this fight can’t be overlooked.
“Their large subscriber base, promotion and the decision to offer to existing customers at no additional cost saw record numbers of viewers.
“Putting these two in a ring attracted fans from both sides of the fence, creating a rare crossover event. With the odds also relatively close, a whole raft of new bettors flocked to back their favourites making this the most bet fight in our history.
“It will be fascinating to see if this follows through to their Christmas Day NFL games, which they are broadcasting for the first time this year, and if any other large streaming platforms react.”
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