It’s another exciting chapter in the 2026 World Axe Throwing League (WATL) and World Knife Throwing League (WKTL) as we wrap up the second national tournament of the year to close out Season 2. Hosted by Anvil Axe Co. in Neosho, Missouri from June 5 to 7, competitors from across the continent gathered to battle for World Championship bids, Circuit Points, and National tournament glory. Competing across three days and five official disciplines, competitors of all divisions went head to head in Hatchet, Big Axe, Hatchet Duals, Knife, and Knife Duals, delivering incredible performances as some of the strongest axe throwing competition in the world.

The weekend showcased the passion and skill that continue to define the WATL and WKTL communities. From dramatic upsets and clutch final throws to the camaraderie that makes every WATL and WKTL event special, Anvil Axe Co. provided the perfect backdrop for another outstanding stop on the 2026 tournament circuit. Based on the latest updates, we’re proud to announce all of the bid winners* for the tournament:

Pro HatchetAm HatchetBig AxeHatchet Duals
Eli MortonRandall WildemanLucas JohnsonBill Fienberg & Eli Morton
Jimmy GrindleJohn PollardTyler FlynnStephen Neal & Jimmy Grindle
Stephen NealJames RuddyStephen ThorgersonBrandon Johnson & Carty Weller
Tyler FlynnLeon CoodyJimmy GrindleTyler Flynn & Lucas Johnson
Lucas JohnsonWilliam EmbersonDustin Resz
Kinson MichelBenjamin GaddySam Arias
Michael TheodorouCarly HensleyMike Resz
Stephen ThorgersonKevin MooreShane Funke

*Some competitors listed above may have already secured a World Championship bid through a prior league season or National tournament. These competitors are still included in the results, as all bids awarded are recognized and recorded independently.

To see the bid winners for the knife disciplines, you can check those out on the World Knife Throwing League website here.

For a more detailed look at the placements of The Forge 2026, check out the spreadsheet results here.