Cage Wars MMA at a Crossroads: Armory Shift, Fan Reaction, and a New Era Under Constantino
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January 2026, Albany NY In 2026, Cage Wars MMA once a staple of upstate New York’s regional fight scene hit a rough patch that stirred both concern and optimism among fighters and fans alike. The promotion’s move away from Rivers Casino in Schenectady, a longtime host venue, was a flashpoint in its recent history.
New Ownership, New Era For Cage Wars MMA
That contract ended in early 2025 amid what leadership described as a “business decision,” but the change still left a gap in the brand’s rhythm and community presence, prompting questions about its direction.
Social media captured the local frustration. On Facebook, Cage Wars officials began heavily promoting Cage Wars 73 at the Albany Armory, signaling a return to the regional circuit for January 31, 2026, and hyping new matchups stacking up on the card.
Meanwhile, grassroots groups for fighters in the Albany area buzz with chatter about MMA bouts coming back to the Armory, and threads calling for local talent to show up ready. The vibe is a mix of excitement for the return and lingering questions about the promotion’s stability.
Part of that transition stems from a significant leadership shift. Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino acquired a majority stake in Cage Wars, moving the brand to a new operational phase with Armory Studios NY as its main venue and a renewed focus on exposure and growth.
Constantino, a longtime sponsor whose company had funded audio, video, and streaming for Cage Wars — said his aim was to bring more marketing muscle and broader exposure to the fighters, including enhanced production and celebrity appearances.
That pivot came after a brief foray hosting a free MMA event at Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls, a move tied to Constantino’s personal initiatives that also raised eyebrows in some MMA circles.
Fans online reflect this tension: some celebrate the return to recognizable venues like the Armory and the promise of higher-profile shows, while others worry about mixed management signals.
On Reddit and MMA forums, conversation about Cage Wars often centers on its identity — was it a grassroots regional proving ground, or is it slipping toward a spectacle with shifting priorities? While many posts focus on fight highlights and spirited submissions, others note concern over consistent matchmaking and event stability as the promotion reorganizes.
Looking ahead, Cage Wars MMA stands at a pivotal moment. The upcoming Cage Wars 73 show on January 31 is positioned as a bounce-back opportunity — a chance to prove that the brand can retain its gritty appeal while embracing improved promotion and fan engagement. Tickets for the event are already on sale (starting around $42) and moving steadily, indicating that local MMA audiences still want live fights in the Capital Region.
For fighters and gyms, the message is clear: reach out to Cage Wars with fresh matchups and ready rosters. The new leadership under Constantino seems eager for depth and diversity on the cards, and the Albany Armory provides a bigger stage than recent Frog Alley Brewing shows.
For fight fans — stay tuned for finalized fight cards and more details as the January date approaches. With strategic planning and consistent delivery, this once-stalled promotion could still be a vital stop on the Northeast MMA circuit.
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