What's Happening?
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has announced a middleweight bout between former Bellator MMA champion Johnny Eblen and Bryan Battle as the headliner for their March 28 event in Pittsburgh. This
event marks the PFL's debut in Pittsburgh, taking place at the UPMC Events Center at Robert Morris University. Eblen, with a record of 16-1, is looking to recover from his first career loss, which occurred during a championship fight against Costello van Steenis. Battle, who was recently released by the UFC, aims to reestablish his career after failing to make weight in his last two fights. The event will also feature a co-main event between Dalton Rosta and Impa Kasanganay.
Why It's Important?
This event is significant as it represents the PFL's expansion into new markets, potentially increasing its fan base and visibility. For Eblen, this fight is an opportunity to regain momentum in his career after a surprising defeat. Battle, on the other hand, seeks redemption and a fresh start following his release from the UFC. The outcomes of these fights could have implications for the fighters' careers, influencing their rankings and future opportunities within the PFL. Additionally, the event highlights the PFL's strategy of featuring high-profile matchups to attract viewership and compete with other major MMA promotions.
What's Next?
As the event approaches, both fighters will focus on their training camps to prepare for the bout. The PFL will continue to promote the event, aiming to draw a large audience both in-person and through ESPN broadcasts. The results of the fights could lead to further opportunities for the winners, potentially setting up future title shots or high-profile matchups. The PFL's success in Pittsburgh could also encourage the organization to explore additional events in new locations.
