Friday, June 26, 2015 the State Journal announced a report regarding Nevada casino revenue from May. According to the report large crowds with plenty of high rollers were in Las Vegas for the May boxing match between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. The fight netted Nevada casinos more than $1 billion. The grand total revenue is the first time Las Vegas has seen more than a billion in over a year.
Michael Lawton, Nevada Gaming Control Board analyst, stated, “To hit a billion, we’re pretty pleased.”
The revenue began with slot machines and tables the night of the May 2 fight. Casinos also increased limits to accommodate many whales in town to see the fight. The month was packed with other events that helped increase the revenue, including the Rock in Rio outdoor music festival, WSOP (World Series of Poker), and Memorial Day weekend.
The report stated December 2013 was the last time casino winnings hit over $1 billion. The gaming board statistics indicate a 3.3% year on year increase for May. Strip casinos increased 1.4% with about $602 million in revenue.
Not everything was great in May. The huge revenue pull came on the heels of the Riviera Hotel and Casino closing. It was a Las Vegas iconic casino.
Analysts further announced May 2014 was an important month with a high loss from gamblers at Baccarat tables.
The fight was helpful in increasing sports betting on basketball, baseball, football, and horse racing. Analysts show a record total of $81.2 million was wagered on various sports games, and $8.2 million of that was won by casinos.
McCarren International Airport also received an increase in revenue due to the fight. It was a much anticipated matchup between two imposing figures in boxing, which accounted for the 3.7 million travelers who arrived in Las Vegas for the show.