A class action lawsuit has been filed in Missouri’s 16th Circuit Court of Jackson County, alleging that the online gambling platform Stake.us, along with rapper Drake and influencer Adin Ross, have engaged in promoting illegal online gambling activities within the state. The suit, initiated by plaintiff Justin Killham, contends that the defendants’ actions “threaten the welfare of Missouri residents and especially its young people,” highlighting concerns over the targeting of minors and vulnerable individuals.
The complaint asserts that Stake.us operates as a virtual clone of Stake.com, rebranded to mislead Missouri regulators and consumers into believing it offers harmless gameplay instead of an unlawful gambling platform. It alleges that the platform’s two-currency system is designed to obscure real-money gambling, with “Gold Coins” presented as having no real-world value, while “Stake Cash” can be wagered and cashed out at a 1:1 ratio to the U.S. dollar. This structure, the suit claims, effectively turns gameplay into real gambling, violating Missouri’s prohibition on online casino gambling. ([readwrite.com](https://readwrite.com/missouri-suit-stake-us-drake-adin-ross-illegal-online-casino/?utm_source=openai))
Drake and Ross are accused of promoting Stake’s gambling products through livestreams and social media, allegedly misleading viewers about the nature of their betting activities. The lawsuit claims that both figures often gamble with company-provided “house money,” giving a false impression of personal risk to entice fans. ([covers.com](https://www.covers.com/industry/drake-adin-ross-stake-illegal-gambling-promotion-in-missouri-oct-28-2025?utm_source=openai))
Stake has responded to the allegations, stating, “We have not been served at this time. We reject allegations that have been made in the media in relation to this potential claim and will vigorously defend this and all such claims.” ([sigma.world](https://sigma.world/news/drake-sued-stake-gambling-lawsuit-missouri/?utm_source=openai))
This legal action comes as Missouri prepares to launch legal online sports betting on December 1, with the Missouri Gaming Commission recently issuing temporary licenses to nine operators. However, online casino gambling remains prohibited in the state, adding complexity to the allegations against Stake.us and its promoters. ([covers.com](https://www.covers.com/industry/drake-adin-ross-stake-illegal-gambling-promotion-in-missouri-oct-28-2025?utm_source=openai))
The lawsuit seeks reimbursement of gambling losses, punitive damages, and an injunction to halt Stake’s operations in Missouri. As the case progresses, it may set a precedent for how online gambling promotions are regulated and litigated, particularly concerning the involvement of high-profile celebrities and influencers.