Rivers Casino Ends Relationship in the Casino Business with Cage Wars

Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, New York, is facing speculation regarding its recent decision to terminate its partnership with the mixed martial arts promoter Cage Wars. Some reports suggest that politics played a role, but casino officials vehemently deny these assertions.

Background of Cage Wars

Cage Wars has been a staple in the Schenectady Event Center since 2018, hosting over 20 events. This MMA promotion brought fighters from around the globe to fans in Upstate New York. Despite this rich history, the partnership has come to an end.

Political Influences and Business Decisions

The primary faces behind Cage Wars include Anthony Constantino, a Republican backing Donald Trump. Despite rumors suggesting that Rivers Casino’s ownership, led by Neil Bluhm—a significant Democratic Party supporter—was uncomfortable with Constantino’s political ties, officials assert that the split was simply a business decision. Rivers Casino released a statement saying, “It was solely a business decision as Rivers Casino continuously evolves our event lineup to provide fresh and exciting opportunities for our guests and the community.”

Relocation of Cage Wars

Following the termination, Cage Wars has secured a new venue at Glens Falls Cool Insuring Arena, which can accommodate up to 4,800 spectators compared to the Rivers Event Center’s limit of 500. Constantino’s congressional campaign has even facilitated free tickets for the upcoming Cage Wars event, scheduled for February 7.

Conclusion

While political opinions may have influenced perceptions, Rivers Casino maintains that the ending of their relationship with Cage Wars was a purely business decision reflecting the casino’s broader strategy. The future of Cage Wars looks bright in its new location.