New England Fights (“NEF”) presents its next event, “NEF 66: Salute,” on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, Maine. The event will feature a full slate of amateur and professional mixed martial arts (MMA) bouts. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur strawweight bout to the card. Preston Garland (0-0) will face John Rogers (0-0) at a fight weight of 115 pounds.

Preston Garland is nearing the completion of his senior year at Mt. Blue High School in Farmington, Maine. The 18-year-old wrestler won the 2026 Class A State Championship at 113 pounds. Garland also holds a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

“I couldn’t be more excited for the fight,” Garland said. “My 10 years of competition in wrestling and jiu jitsu has prepared me for fights like this. The closer we get to the fight, the more confident I get.”

John Rogers hails from a military family. Recently new to Maine, Rogers has spent time training in Texas. The 23-year-old has fully embraced the Maine work style since moving here; he spends his days hauling traps on a lobster boat.

“I’m very excited and eager to show my skills and talent in my debut fight,” Rogers said. “I’m also very blessed to have this opportunity and want to show up and show out. I can assure you all that the love and hard work I’ve put into this sport won’t be for nothing.”

“NEF 66” takes place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, Maine. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the first fight scheduled for 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.