Will MMA Save Atlantic City? [POLL]

The numbers are in, and while they look good for other betting venues in the Northeast, they’re really not that hot for Atlantic City.

According to a report:

…slot machine revenue is at the top of the list at the area’s newest racino at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens, while the Borgata’s take is at the bottom of the list.

I’ve always contended that AC is a lost cause. People don’t want to travel that far to gamble and if they do, they’ll want to go to a place with a nicer surrounding atmosphere than AC.

We already know the Governor wants to ignore the Federal ban on sports betting and bring it to AC as soon as possible. But there’s another lure and this is one that could bring in a more desirable demographic, a group that would more willing to spend money!

It’s MMA…Mixed Martial Arts.

According to another source:

There are 17 professional MMA events planned for the city this year.

A growing number of casino properties are embracing MMA. Revel will be the sixth venue to stage a pro MMA card this year, along with Bally’s Atlantic City, Borgata, Caesars Atlantic City, Resorts Casino Hotel and Tropicana Casino and Resort. Conversely, four of the same casinos — Bally’s, Caesars, Resorts and Tropicana — are the only ones to sponsor boxing cards this year.

“MMA traditionally draws a younger crowd than boxing,” said Caesars Entertainment consultant Ken Condon, who books boxing and MMA shows for the company’s Atlantic City casinos. “But that’s OK, because Atlantic City is not all about gambling anymore. The focus now is on making it appealing to everyone.”

How many times have I said the words, “Family Fun Destination” when referring to AC. OK, so not necessarily “family fun,” but fun for some who love the sport of Mixed Martial Arts.

MMA might be just what the doctor ordered.

Feel free to leave your comments on MMA coming to AC below: