Australian MMA fighter Jamie Mullarkey received a formal warning from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for promoting an unlicensed sportsbook. The regulator took action regarding the 31-year-old athlete's Instagram posts made between April and August 2025.
Mullarkey promoted Leon Casino, an online operator run by Moonlite NV under a Curaçao license. During the partnership, the fighter shared graphics featuring Leon branding and posted a message in May urging followers to "Hit the link in my bio to grab your free bet and back your favourite team or fighter." He also announced the collaboration as a partnership with "Australia’s #1 interactive gaming and sportsbook."
Regulatory Action and Financial Details
This warning marks the first time the ACMA has enforced online gambling rules against a social media influencer. ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood noted that athletes with large followings can significantly encourage the use of illegal gambling services. The authority stated that individuals directing users to unlicensed sites face penalties of up to $2.45m.
The investigation began following a media inquiry regarding offshore gambling advertising at an MMA event. Mullarkey disclosed that he earned $2,500 for signing the agreement and received an additional $2,500 each month during the partnership. The ACMA issued the formal warning rather than a fine because the fighter promptly ended the arrangement, removed the content, and accepted responsibility for the breach.