Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen has expressed concerns over rumors of a merger between PFL and Bellator, noting the potential decline in competition, the uncertainty of fighters’ future, and speculating whether PFL would create a new middleweight division or he would have to move to UFC.
Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen isn’t excited about the rumors concerning a potential merger between the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and Bellator. Recently, there have been strong indications in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) suggesting that Bellator is up for sale. Earlier this month, it was rumored that PFL was in the process of acquiring its competitor. However, the authenticity of these speculations is yet to be confirmed. Eblen expressed that the atmosphere was somewhat different at the Bellator 299 event, where he defended his title and defeated Fabian Edwards in the third round with a technical knockout (TKO).
Eblen shared his insights recently on The MMA Hour, stating, “I feel like the staff isn’t as hyped anymore. It kind of felt like when I went to check in, it wasn’t the same this time.” He acknowledges everyone’s doubts due to the uncertainty surrounding the future of Bellator but credits the Bellator staff for ensuring all functions went as planned. He commented, “other than the energy behind it, everything ran smoothly. Everything ran great. The Bellator staff is amazing.” If Bellator decides to merge with PFL, it stands to impact the entire mental ambiance at MMA events.
At present, Bellator has only two more events scheduled for the rest of the year — Bellator 300 and 301. Post this, nothing has been officially announced, inferring that Eblen’s fight against Edwards could be his last one inside the Bellator cage. The middleweight champion also mentions, “I don’t know what the future holds, but I understand that I’m pretty good at what I do and will always be employed, be it at Bellator, PFL, the UFC or even ONE Championship”.
Eblen also voiced his concern about the potentially detrimental effects of a merger between PFL and Bellator. In his view, such a consolidation could end up decreasing competition within the MMA community. Notwithstanding, he does acknowledge PFL’s goal of improving fighters’ pay rates. In another stance, Eblen, who competes in the middleweight division, reveals his worries regarding PFL’s lack of such a division. This circumstance presents a separate issue as it could result in him being without a place to compete if the merger ultimately transpires.