Newton bought the Aladdin at a difficult time in Las Vegas' history. It was a period in which the federal government was cracking down on the mob and corporate ownership of gaming properties was in its infancy.

The resort was sold to Wayne Newton and Ed Torres in 1980 forR$85 million, snubbing an offer from comedian Johnny Carson. Newton sold his share to Torres 21 months later. Newton sued NBC, who had alleged in broadcasts, that his purchase of the Aladdin was tied to the mafia.