For decades, when drivers from Southern California passed the Nevada state line on their way to Las Vegas, three boisterous, kitschy hotel-casinos on both sides of Interstate 15 greeted them.

Primm, a small oasis community on the California state line, is no longer facing the prospect of becoming a modern-day ghost town after a deal was finalized to shift several local properties to Terrible’s.

Primm, Nevada, was once a beacon in the desert for travelers driving on Interstate 15 from Southern California to Las Vegas — a family-friendly destination, and the first place to gamble right over the Nevada border. The proliferation of casinos across America, however, has sent the town on a long decline.

Gaming companies and casinos get bought and sold all the time. However, what happens when the two biggest operators in Nevada — with 23 total properties on the Strip — are the ones being bought?

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup descends upon North America, Las Vegas is positioning its massive resort pools and high-definition screens as the ultimate viewing destination for international soccer fans.

Barry Diller, the media mogul behind entertainment companies including People Inc., Paramount Pictures and USA Network, is trying to take over MGM Resorts International, a move that could bring his entertainment portfolio from television screens to the Las Vegas Strip’s casino floors. Diller already owns about a quarter of the company and is now seeking the whole business.

The much-anticipated move would give Fertitta control of one of the largest gaming companies in the world and put him in direct competition with MGM.

Tilman Fertitta’s history in Las Vegas extends back to when he bought the Golden Nugget more than 20 years ago, he is also the biggest shareholder in Wynn Resorts.