Bellator Middleweight world champion Johhny Eblen will make his second defense of the 180-pound gold when he takes on top English contender Fabian Edwards at Bellator 299. Since joining the company, the undefeated champion has dominated the Middleweight division of Bellator MMA (BMMA). He defended the title for the first time against Anatoly Tokov in February. The American is a huge favorite ahead of the championship bout at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.
MMA: Bellator Middleweight World Championship
Venue: 3Arena Dublin, Ireland
Where to watch: Showtime
Date: 24.09.2023. 01.00
Johnny Eblen
Since making his 2019 debut in Bellator MMA, the former Collegiate wrestler has been utterly dominant in the Middleweight division. Following seven consecutive wins, Johnny Eblen won the world championship via a unanimous decision over Gegard Mousasi last June. The win propelled him up the Bellator pound-for-pound rankings, with Eblen currently ranked at number four.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 31
- Height: 6’ 1”
- Reach: 74
- Record: 13-0
Fabian Edwards
Like his brother, UFC Welterweight champion Leon Edwards, Fabian Edwards has overcome a difficult background to become a top MMA fighter. The Englishman turned pro in May 2017 at Bellator 179. The 30-year-old alternated between BMMMA and BAMMM in the early years. Now fully invested in Bellator, the BJJ black belt comes into this championship bout off a three-match winning streak, which includes a decision over former two-time Bellator Middleweight champion Gegard Mousasi.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 30
- Height: 6’ 1”
- Reach: 79.5”
- Record: 12-2
Betting Odds
Johnny Eblen is a massive favorite to retain his title. However, a bet for another Edwards family masterclass for MMA-lore is priced at 4.90 odds on Bet365. Eblen by decision is 1.952 on 1XBET, with decision as the method of victory at 1.727 also on 1XBET. Over 4.5 is priced at 1.57 odds on Bet9ja, while the under is at 2.30.