Underdog Steps Away From Missouri Sports Betting Launch

Underdog withdraws Missouri sports betting license ahead of statewide launch | Yogonet International

Withdraws temporary online wagering license

Underdog withdraws Missouri sports betting license ahead of statewide launch

Decision Confirmed by Regulators

Underdog will not take part in Missouri’s sports betting launch next week after withdrawing its temporary online wagering license just days before the market goes live.

Fox2Now first reported the decision, which was later confirmed by Missouri Gaming Commission Chair Jan M. Zimmerman. The withdrawal removes Underdog from the list of operators set to begin accepting wagers when Missouri opens both online and in-person sports betting at midnight on December 1.

Fantasy Sports Operations Continue

A member of the Missouri Gaming Commission told Sports Betting Dime that the company opted to step away from sports wagering but continues to hold a valid fantasy sports contest operator license.

Underdog acknowledged the move without offering additional comment. According to Fox2Now, a commission representative said the company intends to shift its attention toward prediction markets.

Shift Toward Prediction Markets

Underdog launched its first prediction market products in early September after announcing a partnership with Crypto.com, enabling customers to trade and purchase sports event contracts across major leagues, including the NFL and college football.

The offering was described as the first collaboration of its kind between a CFTC-registered exchange and a gaming company. The service, branded as Underdog Predictions, is already active in Missouri.

Current Footprint in Fantasy and Sports Betting

The company continues to operate daily fantasy sports in 40 states as well as Washington, D.C., and Ontario. It currently offers online sports betting in North Carolina and holds a license in Ohio, though it has not yet launched there.

Impact on Missouri’s Sports Betting Market

Underdog’s exit leaves Missouri with eight licensed operators for next week’s rollout. The state has already opened pre-registration and funding for customers signing up with DraftKings, Circa, FanDuel, Fanatics Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook, theScore Bet, bet365, and BetMGM.

PENN and ESPN BET Partnership Changes

The launch also comes as PENN Entertainment and ESPN BET Missouri wind down their 10-year partnership, resulting in PENN rebranding its sportsbook to theScore Bet and ESPN BET closing on December 1. Customers may still register accounts ahead of the transition; users who sign up with ESPN BET now will see their accounts convert to theScore Bet on the rebrand date.

How Missouri’s Rules Work at Launch

Missouri’s sports betting rules allow wagers to be placed anywhere within state lines without requiring a casino visit, provided bets are made through an approved operator. With Underdog bowing out, eight companies will begin accepting wagers when the market opens next week.