After serving over 24 years as a Commissioner on the Arizona Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (“MMA”) Commission, Joe Pennington presided over his final commission meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Pennington was appointed to the Arizona Boxing and MMA Commission in 2001 by Governor Jane Hull and served under the next four administrations of Janet Napolitano, Jan Brewer, Doug Ducey, and Katie Hobbs.

During his tenure, Commissioner Pennington played a key role in strengthening safety protocols for fighters and reinforcing Arizona’s position as a leader in combat sports regulation. He is most proud of the Commission’s commitment to combatant safety, exemplified by the adoption of the concussion protocol and testing, the passage of 581679, the Boxing/MMA Omnibus Bill, in 2024, and the adoption of rules for Boxing, MMA, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Tough Man competitions. Last fall, the Arizona Boxing & MMA Commission was recognized as “Commission of the Year” at the North American Boxing Federation Awards Banquet for its regulatory efforts.

“It has been a pleasure to work alongside Commissioner Pennington over the last few years,” said Danny Vella, Executive Director of ADG’s Boxing and MMA Division. “I am grateful for his nearly two and a half decades of dedicated service and commitment to enhancing combat sports regulation in Arizona. I wish Mr. Pennington the best in his retirement and look forward to the continued impact of his tremendous contributions.”

“On behalf of the Arizona Department of Gaming, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Commissioner Joe Pennington for his unwavering dedication and service to the Boxing & Mixed Martial Arts community in Arizona,” said Director Jackie Johnson, ADG. “Through multiple administrations, his commitment to integrity, fairness, and the growth of combat sports has left a lasting impact on the industry and the state. We thank him for his years of leadership and public service.”

Serving in his final commission meeting, Commissioner Pennington was presented a commendation from Executive Director Vella on behalf of Governor Katie Hobbs, receiving well wishes from several attendees of the Arizona Boxing and MMA Commission meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, The Department and its staff wish Mr. Pennington a joyous and adventurous retirement, and we are forever grateful for his 24 years of service to combat sports safety and regulation in Arizona.

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Bettors in Arizona wagered approximately $898 million on sports in November of 2024, according to a new report by the Arizona Department of Gaming. This represents an approximate 26% increase when compared to November of 2023.

The state collected approximately $5.7 million in privilege fees in the month.

On Sunday, February 9, 2025, the Philadelphia Eagles will face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, with kick-off at 6:30 p.m. ET. As one of the most anticipated and wagered-on sporting events of the year, the Arizona Department of Gaming (“ADG”) is reminding Arizona residents and visitors to bet responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

“The Super Bowl is an exciting event that brings communities together, but it’s essential to approach event wagering with caution and accountability,” said Jackie Johnson, ADG Director. “We encourage all Arizonans to enjoy the game responsibly by ensuring their wagers are placed legally and thoughtfully.” Further emphasizing the importance of using licensed operators for all event wagering activities, “illegal gambling undermines public safety and the integrity of the game, while responsible betting practices help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants,” stated ADG Director, Jackie Johnson.

Sports Pools – Know What Rules to Follow

In the United States, it is common to see friends and family participate in sports pools for the Super Bowl, often known as “Super Bowl Squares”. These pools are legal as long as the state’s social gambling rules are followed. According to Arizona Law (A.R.S. § 13-3301(7)), social gambling requires:

• That gambling cannot be conducted as business, which means that hosts cannot receive
  financial benefit, unless they are participating in the game;
• Hosts pay out all pool money to the winner(s);
• Only participants can win; and
• Players compete on equal terms with each other.

A few things to be on the lookout for that indicate illegal gambling:

• Paying a fee to participate, including “suggested” or “voluntary” donations.
• A host who keeps a percentage of the pool for administering the game.
• A required minimum purchase to participate (food or beverage, etc.).
• Unequal odds.
• Underage participants (under 21 years of age).

Responsible Betting – What to Keep in Mind

With sports betting legal in the state, it has become increasingly important to educate yourself on how you can bet responsibly. Listed below are some helpful tips as part of the American Gaming Association’s (“AGA”) Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly. campaign:

• Set a Budget – It is crucial to keep in mind that everyone will have different budgets; never
  bet beyond your own means. Be cautious and make sure you set a limit – and stick to it – if
  you plan on wagering. More information on how to responsibly set a budget for wagering
  can be found on the AGA’s Have A Game Plan website: How Much Should I Wager?
• Know the Odds – There are plenty of key terms everyone should know when making a sports
  bet. What’s a parlay? Over/under? Moneyline? If you decide to wager, make sure you are
  briefed on The Basics of Sports Betting.
• Keep it Social – Whenever gambling, be mindful that all forms of gambling are for the
  purpose of entertainment. This is not a way to make money. By gaming with friends, family,
  and colleagues, you can keep playing responsibly and have fun.
• Keep Your Cool – No one’s perfect, and in sports, winning and losing are all part of the game.
  Whether you’re wagering from the sidelines or watching from home, remember to keep
  your cool. Good sportsmanship isn’t just for the players on the field; it’s for everyone.
• Play Legally – Legal operators provide important player protections that are not found in
  the illegal market. Whether you are placing a wager on your phone or at a physical
  sportsbook, make sure you are using a legal operator in the state. Visit the ADG website to
  view a full list of the state’s approved operators and retail locations: Approved Operators.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, you can get help now by calling 1-800- NEXT-STEP (1.800.639.8783), the Division of Problem Gaming (“DPG”)’s confidential helpline, texting “NEXTSTEP” to 53342, or utilizing a chat feature on the DPG website. DPG’s helpline provides confidentiality and connects callers with a master’s level counselor who can connect them with available resources, including statewide treatment providers who specialize in problem gambling. The helpline is available 24/7 to everyone facing a problem with gambling, whether that be individuals and affected family members, friends, or co-workers.