The world of mixed martial arts is often filled with surprises, and the rematch between Johnny Eblen and Fabian Edwards is no exception. Initially scheduled for Bellator Champions Series: London, the highly anticipated bout between these two middleweights faced an unexpected delay. However, fans can rejoice as the fight has been rescheduled to occur during the PFL: Battle of the Giants pay-per-view event on October 19, 2023, at The Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This change not only generates excitement for the rematch but also sets the stage for a thrilling card headlined by heavyweight stars Francis Ngannou and Renan Ferreira.
Johnny Eblen (15-0) remains undefeated and will look to secure another victory in the octagon. In their previous battle in September 2023, Eblen demonstrated his championship prowess by knocking out Edwards in the third round. That performance was not only a testament to his striking ability but also his resilience, having previously survived a knockdown during his fight against Impa Kasanganay early in 2023. Eblen’s tactical approach and adaptability have been critical components of his success thus far, as he continues to make his mark in the sport.
On the flip side, Fabian Edwards (13-3) has been working tirelessly to put himself back in title contention following his defeat to Eblen. Edwards’ journey back to the top began with a solid unanimous decision win over Aaron Jeffery in a title eliminator during Bellator Champions Series: Belfast in March. This fight solidified his position as a formidable contender and showcased his determination to reclaim his spot in the championship conversation. With an established wrestling background and striking skills, Edwards aims to leverage his experience and deliver an improved performance in their upcoming rematch.
The PFL: Battle of the Giants promises to deliver not just an enthralling main event but also a well-rounded card that features several high-profile matchups. Alongside Eblen vs. Edwards, the event will showcase women’s featherweight champion Cris Cyborg taking on Larissa Pacheco, and a compelling bout between A.J. McKee and Paul Hughes, adding depth to the lineup. The diverse skill sets of the fighters engaged in these matchups will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats as they anticipate all the action set to unfold.
As the countdown to October 19 continues, both Johnny Eblen and Fabian Edwards must concentrate on training and strategizing for their rematch. For Eblen, the challenge lies in maintaining his undefeated status and proving that his victory was no fluke. Conversely, Edwards has everything to gain: a win could catapult him back into title contention and erase the bitter taste of his past defeat. The stakes could not be higher for both competitors, and the mixed martial arts community eagerly awaits what promises to be an unforgettable clash in the cage.