Premier League sponsor refutes ties to cockfighting, fans express discomfort

BJ88, the front-of-shirt sponsor for AFC Bournemouth, has categorically denied any association with cockfighting, following rumors suggesting otherwise. Fans of the Premier League club have expressed their discomfort with the speculation and are relieved to hear the sponsor's denial.

The Asian betting company, who have teamed up with the Cherries for the 2024-25 season, have been accused of having links to cockfighting in the Philippines.

BJ88 deny the allegations and a spokesperson claims some websites and social media profiles have mirrored their brand name, resulting in widespread confusion.

Bournemouth’s front-of-shirt sponsor now plan take legal action as they issued a statement vowing to ‘protect’ their business and reputation amid the rumours.

‘BJ88 has been made aware of several websites and social media channels mirroring our brand name, logo and other intellectual property,’ a spokesperson told the Bournemouth Echo.

‘Although some may be similar in design and in some of the services offered, these companies, websites and social media channels are not genuine.

‘We wish to emphasise, we do not in any way represent or condone the practices of these groups and we will where necessary and appropriate take legal action to ensure our business, reputation and customers are protected.’

Despite BJ88 denying the cockfighting allegations, Bournemouth fans have been left feeling incredibly concerned about the situation, calling out ‘murkiness’.

Cherries Trust society secretary Gayle Hope said: ‘We were very uncomfortable with a gambling sponsor to begin with but there’s been all sorts of murkiness.

‘There’s a lack of transparency from every party involved. We don’t want to sit back and do nothing. The fans are concerned.’

Bournemouth are not the only sports club sponsored by BJ88, who also have partnerships with cricket teams Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Quetta Gladiators.

The Cherries told their fans that BJ88 will ‘make a financial donation towards community projects’ when they were announced as a new sponsor in July.

‘The club is excited to be partnering with BJ88 for in what is a record-breaking deal,’ Bournemouth commercial director Rob Mitchell said. ‘Their investment will have huge significance to help us compete in the Premier League both on and off the pitch.’