Fencing icon Miles Chamley-Watson isn’t just chasing medals anymore… he’s building the future of his sport.
The British-American three-time Olympic medalist and multiple world champion recently launched the World Fencing League (WFL), a bold new competition aimed at modernizing fencing, expanding its audience, and — most importantly — creating a real professional pathway for young athletes. And when Celeb Secrets caught up with the 36-year-old in Miami ahead of the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday (January 19), he didn’t hesitate to share just how personal the project is.
“I wanted to start it because I wanted to create a roadmap for the kids that are kind of growing up now and give them an actual angle to be a pro,” Chamley-Watson told Celeb Secrets at Dos Equis’ epic sailgate party. “So hopefully it changes the whole sport around… it’s gonna be incredible.”
Backed by sports investment firm Chiron Sports Group and co-founded alongside fellow fencing superstar Lee Kiefer, the WFL is designed to evolve fencing into a fast-paced, fan-friendly competition format — complete with simplified rules, AI-powered blade tracking, and team-based matchups, according to Bloomberg. The inaugural event will take place in Los Angeles on April 25, 2026, featuring male and female athletes competing for a $100,000 prize pool. And yes — Miles personally invited us.
When we asked what surprised him most during the process, his answer was pure heart.
“Actually all the love that I’ve been getting from people,” he revealed. “So much love from friends, family, and people who I look up to…”
And when it comes to what he hopes kids take away from attending the World Fencing League?
“I want them to go to school, graduate, play the sport and be Olympic champion.”
Chamley-Watson was one of several high-profile guests — including Tom Brady, Gabrielle Union, Dwayne Wade, Dede Lovelace Fuerza Regida and Oz Pearlman — invited to Dos Equis’ Sailgate celebration just miles from the stadium ahead of the National Championship game.
The event marked the official return of The Most Interesting Man in the World, portrayed by Jonathan Goldsmith, after nearly a decade. The legendary character made his comeback with Dos Equis’ revived “Stay Thirsty, My Friends” campaign, which officially debuted during the title game broadcast later that night.
Set against Miami waters, the Sailgate brought together athletes, entertainers, and creators for an unforgettable pregame experience — complete with drinks, sunshine, and enough star power to rival the CFP itself.
And Miles? He fit right in.
“I’m always thirsty for a Dos Equis beer,” he laughed, before flagging down the bartender for a fresh can. “I love football. I want to see a good game.”
Between training, launching a league, and casually attending elite brand events, Chamley-Watson is staying booked and busy — and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
“My Nike shoe just dropped, so maybe we will do a part two soon… who knows?” he teased.
