Riviera
**Historical Significance of the Riviera Casino in Las Vegas**Established in 1955 by Wilbur Clark and Jimmy McHugh, the Riviera Casino played a pivotal role in the development of the Las Vegas Strip. Its distinctive pyramid-shaped marquee became a landmark, symbolizing the city's post-World War II resurgence.
The Riviera was known for its lavish shows and celebrity performances. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. were among the "Rat Pack" stars who made the casino their second home. The "Copa Room" showcased legendary comedians and entertainers, including Don Rickles and Phyllis Diller.
In 1979, the Riviera was the site of the infamous "Boston Massacre" boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Larry Holmes. The casino also hosted several high-profile boxing events featuring champions like Sugar Ray Leonard and Manny Pacquiao.
Despite its iconic status, the Riviera faced financial difficulties in later years. In 2015, it was sold to a real estate developer who planned to demolish the property.
On June 14, 2016, the Riviera Casino was imploded in a spectacular demolition. The site was later transformed into a mixed-use development known as "Resorts World Las Vegas."
The closure and implosion of the Riviera marked the end of an era in Las Vegas history. Its legacy as a glamorous entertainment venue and a symbol of the city's golden age continues to be remembered and celebrated by visitors and residents alike.
**Sources:**
* [History of the Riviera: Las Vegas Sun](https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/jun/14/riviera-casino-implosion-las-vegas-friday-night/)
* [The History of the Riviera in Las Vegas](https://www.travelchannel.com/destinations/las-vegas/articles/the-riviera-las-vegas-history)
* [Demolition of the Riviera: Las Vegas Review-Journal](https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/casinos/riviera-casino-implosion-1355010/)
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