If you’re coming to town for the Floyd Mayweather/Saul "Canelo" Alvarez championship fight and want to watch it without going to the fight itself, here’s the deal. It definitely won’t be broadcast in the sports books or bars. However, there will be viewing parties that you can go to for an admission charge.
We checked one out in Diablo’s at Monte Carlo when Mayweather fought Robert Guerrero in May. The fight was broadcast live in the upstairs patio area. Tickets were $50. The premium tables were all reserved, but bar seats and some added seating was open. It was first-come-first-served, and all the seats were taken when we got there about a half hour before fight time (you have to line up right at the opening or be prepared to stand). Drinks were a buck or two more than they were downstairs, but not exorbitantly priced (about $7 for a beer).
Overall, the deal was good for someone who just has to see the fight. There was plenty of security and there were no problems. Overall it was an enjoyable experience and easily worth the money.
As for this weekend’s fight, here are some leads. Hyde Bellagio is showing the fight with an admission charge of $110. Diablo’s (and The Pub) at Monte Carlo is showing it again, but the admission has gone up to $100. Other venues advertising $100 admissions in their ballrooms and convention areas include Aria, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, the Mirage, Monte Carlo, and New York-New York. The Deuce Lounge at Aria is advertising a "$25 admission," but also suggesting table reservations, which sounds like there’ll be an upcharge. Also suggesting reservations are Lily Bar & Lounge at Bellagio and the Crazy Horse III gentlemen’s club.
Two other possibilities look good. Sapphire gentlemen’s club is advertising a $50 admission that includes food and prize giveaways (only $20 for locals). And Blondies in the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has a $25 admission, with an all-you-can-drink add-on for $75 more.
For those interested in betting the fight, Mayweather is the -270 favorite (bet $270 to win $100), while you can get +230 on Alvarez.
