Johnny Eblen Claims PFL Austin Title

Eblen Dominates Kasanganay in Third‑Round Finish

Johnny Eblen returned to champion status with a decisive win over Impa Kasanganay at the PFL Austin main event. The fight was a rematch that followed a narrow victory for Eblen earlier in the season. From the opening bell, Eblen applied relentless pressure, forcing Kasanganay into a defensive posture.

Kasanganay answered back in the second round, landing a series of overhand rights that briefly stalled Eblen’s advance. The exchange left Kasanganay bleeding from a facial cut, while Eblen was splattered with blood as the round progressed. Despite the crackdown, Eblen kept moving forward, his strikes finding the target.

The pattern continued into the third round, where Eblen’s sustained assault finally broke Kasanganay. A clean elbow from Eblen produced a nasty effect, prompting the referee to halt the contest. The win secured the interim middleweight crown for the former Bellator champion.

Post‑Fight Clash with Costello van Steenis

After the bout, Eblen turned his attention to undisputed champion Costello van Steenis, who had handed him his first career loss. The two were slated for a rematch at PFL Austin, but van Steenis withdrew before stepping into the cage. Eblen let his frustration boil over, yelling, “Look at him! He’s standing! He’s here! Why aren’t we fighting?!”

Van Steenis then entered the ring, and the two exchanged heated words that were partly censored by the broadcast. Eblen’s remarks underscored his desire to settle the score with the fighter who once defeated him. The incident adds another layer to their ongoing rivalry within the division.

Eblen’s victory not only recaptures the interim title but also reinforces his status as a top contender for broader recognition. With van Steenis still sidelined, the path toward a potential showdown appears open. Fans can expect more drama as the PFL season unfolds.