Fabian Edwards Claims PFL Title with Stunning Knockout Kick

Former Bellator MMA title challenger Fabian Edwards delivered a remarkable performance on Thursday, securing a knockout victory over Dalton Rosta in the third round of the PFL World Tournament finals. The event took place in Hollywood, Florida, and Edwards’ decisive left head kick at 1:28 of the round mirrored the championship-winning strike executed by his brother, Leon Edwards, three years earlier at UFC 278.

The knockout marked a significant moment for Edwards, who now holds a professional record of 16-4. The victory not only earned him the PFL’s tournament prize of $500,000 but also served as a form of redemption following his previous championship fights in Bellator, where he faced former champion Johnny Eblen and fell short both times.

Edwards displayed resilience throughout the match, managing to counter Rosta’s takedown attempts in the first two rounds. The knockout signified his sixth career win by knockout, showcasing his striking capabilities and potential for future success in mixed martial arts.

Other Tournament Highlights

The PFL finals featured three championship matches, each promising high-stakes action. In the heavyweight division, Oleg Popov claimed his first PFL tournament championship by defeating Alexander Romanov via split decision. Popov, trained by MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko, had previously reached the finals of last year’s regular season but lost in the first round to Denis Goltsov.

In the light heavyweight category, Antonio Carlos Jr. secured his second PFL tournament title by submitting Sullivan Cauley in the second round. Carlos Jr. entered the matchup as a slight underdog and faced challenges, including a knockdown in the first round. However, he ultimately overcame Cauley, who suffered a significant cut before being finished on the ground.

As the PFL continues to showcase emerging talents and seasoned fighters, Edwards’ performance highlights his potential for further achievements within the sport. The dramatic finishes and fierce competition throughout the tournament underscore the growing excitement surrounding mixed martial arts.