As Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen prepared for one of Saturday’s three title fights, he confidently stated that he and UFC’s Sean Strickland are the top two middleweights globally. However, for this assertion to hold true, Eblen must prove he is superior to UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis, who defeated Strickland earlier this year, along with notable fighters like Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker. While Eblen had an opportunity to bolster his claim in a matchup against Fabian Edwards, the outcome was mixed.
Eblen secured a unanimous decision victory after executing a series of takedowns throughout five intense rounds. However, his performance did not convincingly support his assertion, especially considering he had previously defeated Edwards by stoppage. This time, the fight appeared closer, with some rounds potentially swaying in favor of Edwards.
Post-fight, Eblen acknowledged some challenges he faced during the competition. “I kind of faded a little bit,” he reflected, citing the seven-hour time difference and his decision to arrive in advance but possibly not early enough. “I’m pretty satisfied. I wish I could have ended him again. Fabian’s a top-level guy. He’s one of the best in the world,” he added.
Given Eblen’s prior struggles in a split-decision victory against PFL champion Impa Kasanganay, his claim to be the best middleweight currently seems to lack substantial support.