The New Jersey State Athletic Control Board (SACB) has implemented stricter sports betting policies for combat sports participants, aiming to protect event integrity and public trust. The update comes following controversy surrounding recent high-profile boxing matches.

The new policy prohibits all combat sports participants - including fighters, promoters, referees, judges, timekeepers, medical personnel, trainers, and agency employees - from betting on any combat sports events worldwide. While betting on non-combat sports remains permitted, SACB employees must register with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE).

SACB Commissioner Larry Hazzard Sr. emphasized the policy's importance: "We are safeguarding the integrity of combative sports events. By implementing these standards, we are sending a clear message that unethical behavior will not be tolerated in New Jersey's combative sports industry."

Key Policy Points:

• Complete ban on combat sports betting for industry participants
• Mandatory reporting of suspected violations
• Disciplinary actions include fines, license suspension, or revocation
• Applies to boxing, wrestling, MMA, UFC, kickboxing, and other combat sports

The timing follows the controversial Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson match, which raised questions about predetermined outcomes in combat sports. While Paul denied allegations of match-fixing, explaining Tyson's performance as a result of his superior boxing skills, the incident highlighted the need for stronger integrity measures in combat sports betting.

Combat sports face unique challenges in maintaining betting integrity compared to team sports, as individual participants can more easily influence outcomes. The SACB's updated policy aims to address these vulnerabilities and maintain public confidence in combat sports events.

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