Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady has ended its partnership with MMA promoter Cage Wars, sparking speculation about political motivations behind the decision.

Cage Wars, which has hosted over 20 events at Rivers Schenectady Event Center since 2018, is sponsored by companies owned by Republican businessman Anthony Constantino. Constantino recently supported Donald Trump's 2024 campaign and is now running for Congress in New York's 21st District.

Rivers Casino, owned by Rush Street Gaming's Neil Bluhm (a prominent Democratic Party donor), maintains the split was "solely a business decision" to evolve their event lineup. The timing and political connections have raised questions, given Bluhm's significant donations to Democratic candidates, including nearly $1 million to Kamala Harris' campaign.

Cage Wars CEO Timothy Rankins, while surprised by the decision, noted the organization had outgrown Rivers' 500-person capacity venue. The promotion has already secured a new home at Glens Falls Cool Insuring Arena, which can accommodate 4,800 spectators.

The MMA promotion's next event, Cage Wars 69, is scheduled for February 7th at the new venue. Constantino is covering all attendees' tickets as part of his congressional campaign. As a pro/amateur MMA league not overseen by the New York State Athletic Commission, no U.S. regulated sportsbooks currently offer betting on Cage Wars fights.

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