Las Vegas has always been known for its vibrant atmosphere, captivating stories, and iconic figures. Among these legends is Jimmy Vaccaro, a man who has spent nearly five decades shaping the world of sports betting in the city. From managing sports books to setting odds, Vaccaro's name has become synonymous with Las Vegas sports gambling history.

In 2023, Vaccaro became part of the inaugural class of the Sports Gambling Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the industry's iconic oddsmakers. Regarded as one of the most famous figures in Las Vegas, Vaccaro's reputation precedes him, garnering immense respect from his peers and admirers.

But Vaccaro's fame extends beyond the world of sports betting. His brother, Sonny, famously portrayed by Matt Damon in the movie "Air," played a pivotal role in convincing Nike to sign basketball legend Michael Jordan. Jimmy Vaccaro himself has had his fair share of adventures, one of which include making an appearance on the popular animated show, "The Simpsons," in 1995.

During a recent visit, Vaccaro shared some of his captivating stories. Fondly reminiscing about the glory days of big boxing matches in Las Vegas, he recalled Muhammad Ali's last fight against Larry Holmes in 1980. Vaccaro also recounted an amusing anecdote about a customer from Detroit betting $40,000 on Tommy Hearns in a big fight, causing a humorous cash-counting predicament.

As one of the first pioneers in sports betting, Vaccaro's influence and legacy are undeniable. He pioneered setting season win totals for teams, a trend that has since become one of the most popular markets in sports betting. Despite a few setbacks, including a memorable loss of $1.4 million in a single day at The Mirage, Vaccaro's determination and passion for the industry have propelled him forward.

Perhaps Vaccaro's most renowned moment came during the highly anticipated 1990 bout between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas. Vaccaro's sports book at The Mirage was the only one that set a line, starting at an astonishing 27-to-1 odds. The upset victory by Douglas made headlines worldwide, solidifying Vaccaro's place in boxing history. ESPN even produced a documentary titled "42 to 1" about the historic fight, immortalizing Vaccaro's contribution.

Reflecting on his journey, Vaccaro expressed his excitement about the growth of sports betting in recent years. With the legalization of sports gambling across various states, the industry has reached new heights. Vaccaro's unparalleled expertise and willingness to leave the door open for new opportunities have played a significant role in bringing sports betting to the mainstream.

As Vaccaro continues to advise the oddsmaking team at the South Point sports book, his comfortable sweatshirt and beaming smile tell the story of a man who has truly lived through the glory days of Las Vegas sports gambling. With countless stories and experiences under his belt, Jimmy Vaccaro remains an enduring legend in the ever-evolving world of sports betting.