Johnny Eblen to fight UFC veteran Bryan Battle PFL Pittsburg

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) will make its highly anticipated debut in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on March 28, 2026, when Johnny “Pressure” Eblen squares off against Bryan “The Butcher” Battle in a middleweight main event at the UPMC Events Center. The card marks the league’s first visit to the Steel City and will air live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes in the U.S., with prelims streaming earlier on the ESPN app.

Eblen Looking to Reassert Himself

Eblen (16-1) enters the bout as a former Bellator Middleweight World Champion and one of the most respected 185-pound fighters outside the UFC. A powerful wrestler with developing striking, he built a dominant record before transitioning into the PFL, where he continued to impress. Although Eblen’s first taste of defeat came in a dramatic title bout at PFL Champions Series 2 — where Costello van Steenis submitted him in the final seconds — he remains highly ranked and feared in the division.

Before the loss, Eblen had established himself as a tough matchup for anyone in the middleweight ranks with a methodical, pressure-based wrestling game and crisp striking. His three successful defenses of the Bellator belt, including wins over notable opponents such as Fabian Edwards, underscored his status as an elite fighter.

Battle’s Debut in PFL, Redemption on the Line

For Battle (12-2, 1 NC), the matchup presents a chance to make a major statement in his promotional debut. The 31-year-old veteran earned early recognition by winning The Ultimate Fighter 29 and went on to compile a 7–1 UFC record, but his stint in the Octagon ended after missing weight multiple times, leading to his release in 2025. Shortly after, he signed with PFL and has been positioning himself for a run in the middleweight ranks.

Battle brings an aggressive, well-rounded skill set to the cage — his record includes stoppages via both strikes and submissions, and he’ll be eager to prove he can stay disciplined and in shape at this weight class. Still, questions linger about his consistency and conditioning after his weight-cutting struggles in recent competition.

Predictions and Fight Breakdown

This pairing offers a classic stylistic contrast: Eblen’s relentless pressure and high-level wrestling against Battle’s dynamic striking and finishing ability. Many analysts favor Eblen to control the pace, utilize takedowns and smother Battle to win rounds and potentially seek a late finish. However, Battle’s power and aggression could pose problems if he keeps the fight standing and lands big shots early. Given Eblen’s high fight IQ and championship experience, he’s often seen as the safer pick, but Battle’s hunger and unpredictable offense make this a compelling matchup with upset potential — especially if he can dictate range.

The Rest of PFL Pittsburgh

In addition to the main event, PFL Pittsburgh’s co-main event will feature Dalton Rosta (11-2) taking on Impa Kasanganay (19-6), setting up another intriguing middleweight clash that could impact divisional pecking order. Tickets went on presale and general sale in late January, and the promotion has promised more bouts will be announced as the date approaches.

With the backdrop of a passionate Pittsburgh sports scene and a card loaded with talent, PFL Pittsburgh: Eblen vs. Battle looks poised to be one of the promotion’s standout early events of 2026 — blending rising stars, established veterans and a must-watch main event for MMA fans.