Eblen-Edwards title rematch set for Bellator London headliner

Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen will defend his title in a rematch with Fabian Edwards in the main event of Bellator Champions Series London on Sept. 14 at OVO Arena Wembley, the promotion announced Tuesday.

Eblen knocked out Edwards in the third round of a 185-pound title fight last September at Bellator 299 in Dublin. Eblen, undefeated as a pro at 15-0, has since fended off Impa Kasanganay by split decision at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champs event in February. The American Top Team product has held the belt since June 2022.

Edwards earned a second crack at Eblen by defeating Aaron Jeffery via unanimous decision at Bellator Belfast in March. Edwards, the brother of UFC welterweight champ Leon, is 4-1 in his last five outings, including a dominant win over former Bellator titleholder Gegard Mousasi.

The Eblen-Edwards winner is expected to defend the championship against No. 1 contender Costello van Steenis.