Johnny Eblen submits Bryan Battle with ruthless efficiency, announcing his championship intentions in devastating fashion at PFL Pittsburgh. Eight months after tasting defeat for the first time in his career, the former Bellator middleweight king reminded everyone why he’s still a problem at 185 pounds.
Eblen’s Dominant Submission Victory Sets Up Title Shot
This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Eblen (17-1) absolutely mauled Bryan Battle (12-3, 1 NC) from the opening bell, securing the rear naked choke at 4 minutes and 10 seconds of the first round. The performance couldn’t have been more perfectly timed, coming exactly one week after Costello van Steenis defended the PFL middleweight title.
“I’ve got to get that belt back,” Eblen declared post-fight. “Costello, if you’re f—ing watching, I’m f—ing coming for you, baby. Revenge! Let’s go! Revenge!”
Furthermore, Battle never stood a chance. The UFC veteran, making his PFL debut after being released for repeated weight-cutting failures, found himself on the canvas within 15 seconds. Every time he scrambled back to his feet, Eblen violently slammed him back down. Eight takedowns. Seven brutal slams. One inevitable finish.
Battle’s UFC Experience Counts for Nothing
This was carnage of the highest order. Battle had only been finished once in his professional career—way back in 2019 during his second pro bout. Despite competing nine times in the UFC with just one loss, he looked completely out of his depth against Eblen’s relentless pressure.
Meanwhile, in the co-main event, Impa Kasanganay (20-6) continued his impressive form with a first-round knockout of Dalton Rosta (11-3). The 2023 PFL champion ended matters at 3:18 with a crisp right-left combination that folded the local favourite.
Consequently, PFL Pittsburgh delivered exactly what fight fans needed—dominant performances from elite middleweights positioning themselves for bigger things. Eblen’s path back to championship gold looks clearer than ever, and van Steenis better be watching his back.
