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Bloomington-Normal, Illinois
Forged in Fire Watch Party

Forged in Fire Watch Party

Date & Time
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
9:00 pm
Cost
Location
305 Veterans Pkwy, Normal, IL, 61761
Phone

Bladesmith Taylor Mathews is stepping into the spotlight on the hit History Channel series Forged in Fire for the very first time. The highly anticipated episode will air on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 9 PM, showcasing Taylor’s skill, creativity, and determination in the forge.

In this intense competition, four bladesmiths are challenged to craft edged weapons that will be tested for strength, sharpness, and durability by a panel of expert judges. For Taylor, this debut marks both an opportunity and a test: to demonstrate his craftsmanship under the pressure of the forge.

“I’m honored and excited to bring my work to a national audience through Forged in Fire,” said Mathews. “This is a chance to push myself creatively and technically, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the results.”

Episode Highlights

  • Taylor’s first-ever competition on Forged in Fire.
  • High-pressure challenges demanding both technical precision and creative artistry.
  • Rigorous testing by the show’s expert judges to determine whose blade will triumph.

Tune In
Catch Taylor Mathews’ Forged in Fire debut on the History Channel this Wednesday, August 27 at 9 PM.

Watch Party Alert!
Fans are invited to celebrate Taylor’s premiere at a special watch party hosted at Joe’s Station House in Normal. Come early for an evening of community, camaraderie, and cheering Taylor on as his episode airs live.

About Forged in Fire
Forged in Fire is the acclaimed competition series that challenges bladesmiths to create fully functional weapons, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern competition. Each episode puts smiths through grueling rounds of forging, testing, and elimination until one is crowned champion.

 

About Taylor Mathews

Taylor Mathews has been crafting knives for over a decade and working as a full-time bladesmith for the past five years. He is the managing partner of Edge of Normal Workshop, a family-owned sharpening and knife-making business located at 403 S. Madison in Bloomington.

He attended Joliet Junior College’s nationally recognized Culinary Arts program, Taylor draws on his background in professional kitchens to influence his approach to knife design. His blades are known for their precise geometry, balance, and functionality— marrying the practical needs of chefs and craftsmen with the artistry of fine metalwork. Each knife he creates is both a highly functional tool and a unique work of art.

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