What is Unique about WWE Betting?
Betting on World Wrestling Entertainment presents a different scenario compared to traditional sports betting. The core issue revolves around the nature of WWE programming itself. Professional wrestling features predetermined outcomes designed to advance storylines and entertain audiences.
The Challenge of Scripted Outcomes
Because results are fixed in advance, the risk of insider information being leaked is significant. Such leaks, often called “dirt sheets,” could give bettors an unfair advantage over sportsbooks. Consequently, gaming regulators in many jurisdictions, particularly within the United States, prohibit wagering on events with fixed or known outcomes.
For instance, Colorado explicitly forbids bets on events with predicted outcomes. Some industry figures, like the CEO of BetMGM, have expressed strong opposition to offering odds on scripted events.
WWE’s Efforts Towards Legitimacy
Recognizing the potential revenue stream, WWE has attempted to address integrity concerns. The organization partnered with accounting firms like Ernst & Young, similar to how the Academy Awards secures results, aiming to prevent script leaks and build trust with regulators.
WWE has reportedly explored getting regulated wagering approved in states like Colorado, Indiana, and Michigan, though progress appears slow, with states remaining hesitant. Both regulators and operators require confidence in the integrity of competitions before allowing gambling.
Finding WWE Betting Opportunities
Despite regulatory hurdles in places like the US, betting on WWE is possible through specific channels. International online sportsbooks are the primary platforms offering WWE betting markets. Some platforms may categorize wrestling under entertainment or special betting sections.
Offshore and International Sportsbooks
Many reputable licensed bookmakers, particularly those operating outside strict US regulations, offer odds for major WWE events. Sites like Bovada and BetUS are often highlighted for providing WWE odds, including futures bets on upcoming events or potential wrestler changes. Bovada, for example, offered specific odds for the WrestleMania match between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns, sometimes providing better value than competitors.
BetUS is noted for offering futures markets, such as odds on the Royal Rumble months in advance. SportsBetting.ag is recognized for its variety of payment options, including numerous cryptocurrencies. XBet is another site that is mentioned for providing beneficial odds early for major events.
Limited Options in Regulated Markets
In some regulated markets, options might be restricted. DraftKings, for example, has offered WWE contests in the form of “Pools”. These usually involve answering questions about an event, with winners sharing a prize pool, rather than traditional sports betting on match outcomes. Users create an account, find the specific WWE pool contest (often free), answer the questions, and provide banking details if they win.
Popular WWE Bet Types
WWE betting extends beyond simply picking a match winner. Sportsbooks offer various markets to engage bettors. Understanding these types is crucial before placing a wager.
Moneyline Betting
This is the most straightforward wager, involving betting on who will win a specific match. Odds are presented with favorites having negative signs (e.g., -500) and underdogs having positive signs (e.g., +300) in the American odds format. A $500 bet on a -500 favorite would yield $100 profit, while a $100 bet on a +300 underdog would yield $300 profit. Bettors should check if disqualifications count towards the result.
Props Betting
Proposition bets, or props, focus on specific occurrences within a match or event, not just the overall outcome. Examples include betting on the victory method (pinfall, submission), the number of times a wrestler performs their signature move, or how long a participant lasts in the Royal Rumble. These markets often provide more attractive odds than simple match winner bets.
Parlay Betting
Parlay betting involves combining multiple individual bets (legs) into one larger wager. All legs must win for the parlay to pay out, but the potential payout is significantly higher than single bets. An odds calculator can help determine potential winnings.
Futures Betting
Futures bets involve wagering on outcomes of events far in advance. Examples include betting on the winner of the next Royal Rumble or WrestleMania main event months before they occur. BetUS is noted for offering these types of long-term wagers.
Also Read: How Do Casino Games and Sports Betting Odds Compare
Major WWE Events for Betting
While some sites might offer odds on weekly shows like Raw or SmackDown, the most significant betting action centers around WWE’s Premium Live Events (PLEs), formerly known as pay-per-views (PPVs). These monthly spectacles feature the biggest matches and storylines.
WrestleMania
Considered the Super Bowl of professional wrestling, WrestleMania is WWE’s flagship event, typically held in early April. It features the highest-profile matches and celebrity appearances and often includes returning legends. Betting markets include match winner odds and unique prop bets, like the over/under on title changes during the event. Sportsbooks may offer special promotions for this event.
Royal Rumble
Kicking off the road to WrestleMania each January, the Royal Rumble features namesake matches for both men and women. Thirty participants enter sequentially, aiming to be the last one remaining after eliminating others over the top rope. Betting focuses on the overall winner, but props like wrestler elimination order or time spent in the ring are also popular.
Other Key Events
SummerSlam, Survivor Series, and newer events like Elimination Chamber also attract significant betting interest. Each event has unique match types and implications, offering diverse wagering opportunities throughout the year. Elimination Chamber matches, held inside a large steel structure, provide chaotic and unpredictable betting scenarios.
Strategies and Considerations for WWE Bettors
Betting successfully on WWE requires a different approach than traditional sports. Analyzing statistics is less critical than understanding storylines, fan sentiment, and company direction. Here are some tips:
Follow Storylines and Trends: Pay attention to ongoing narratives, character developments (heel turns, face turns), and potential surprise returns. Booking patterns and kayfabe storytelling heavily influence outcomes.
Consider Fan Sentiment: Fan forums and social media can offer insights into who the audience wants to see pushed or win major titles. Sustained fan demand often eventually influences WWE’s booking decisions.
Analyze Booking Logic: Think about what outcomes make sense for future storylines and major events like WrestleMania. Sometimes, predictable outcomes occur, while other times, swerves happen to shock the audience.
Bet with Your Head: Avoid letting personal favoritism dictate your bets; focus on likely outcomes based on booking patterns and narrative direction, not just who you want to win.
Check for Leaks Cautiously: While “dirt sheets” exist, relying on them is risky, and sportsbooks adjust odds quickly if credible leaks surface. Using leaked information might also violate a sportsbook’s terms.
Manage Your Bankroll: As with any gambling, set a budget and stick to it. Utilize features like deposit limits offered by some platforms.
Exploring Sportsbooks Features
When choosing a platform for WWE betting (or general sports wagering), consider features offered by various sportsbooks. While the availability of WWE markets can vary, general platform quality is important.
Odds Quality: Look for sites with competitive odds and low margins. YYY Sportsbook, for example, is noted for odds margins around 5% for mainstream sports markets, potentially offering better value. 888 Sportsbook also provides odds across numerous sports.
Market Variety: Beyond match winner bets, look for a good selection of props and futures. Some platforms offer extensive betting markets, including in-play betting options.
Live Betting and Streaming: Many platforms offer live betting, allowing wagers during an event. Some, like YYY Sportsbook, may offer live streaming, though coverage might be limited, often focusing on eSports or niche sports.
Bonuses and Promotions: Sportsbooks often attract users with welcome bonuses or ongoing promotions. Review the terms, like rollover requirements, associated with these offers.
Payment Methods: Ensure the site supports convenient sports betting and casino payment methods, such as e-wallets, credit cards, or cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Check minimum deposit/withdrawal limits and processing times. 888 Sportsbook and YYY have specified minimum deposit amounts.
Mobile Access: Many bettors prefer using mobile apps. Look for platforms with user-friendly apps available for common operating systems.
