Art of War Cage Fighting is set to host its inaugural event of the year, AOW 46: Turnbull vs Yapsam, at the Valley Forge, PA Casino. The promotion, led by Mike Bickings, consistently delivers high-quality events, and the forecast suggests 2026 will continue this trend. The main event will see Turnbull defend his AOW featherweight championship against Canadian challenger Ryan Yapsam.
The co-main event will showcase Marquez MMA’s talent, Juwan Gonzales (4-1), the reigning bantamweight champion. Gonzales will face Justin Cariss, a wrestler since the age of three, who holds a 3-1 record, including an ankle lock victory in his most recent fight on February 28th. This bout is anticipated to be a highlight, featuring two promising fighters with potential for long and successful careers. Cariss hones his skills under the guidance of veterans Nick Cottone (American MMA and Wrestling) and Jeff Cressman from Power Half Wrestling Academy/Cressman MMA. Cressman, a formidable striking coach and mentor, developed his expertise at the renowned Daddis Fight Camp.
In a featured middleweight clash, the undefeated Justus “the Ruckus” Cheatom (2-0) will look to maintain his perfect record against the savvy, more experienced Nick Stephenson (2-1). Stephenson trains with the esteemed Daukaus brothers, Chris and Kyle, at The Forge MMA. Cheatom, 22, is a dedicated gym enthusiast, committed to both fighting and weightlifting, evident in his impressive physique. While physical prowess doesn’t always guarantee cage success, Cheatom has translated it effectively thus far. His coach, Cressman, expresses immense confidence in Cheatom’s future potential, believing his ceiling is “gigantic.”