BREAKING: In an astonishing turn of events, Dutch middleweight Costello van Steenis captured the PFL championship by submitting the reigning titleholder Johnny Eblen in the final moments of their intense matchup on July 15, 2023. Van Steenis (17-3) executed a rear-naked choke, leaving Eblen (16-1) unconscious with just nine seconds remaining, shocking fans and analysts alike.
This dramatic victory unfolded at the PFL (Professional Fighters League) event, where Eblen entered as a heavy favorite, boasting a betting line of more than 5-1. Despite a strong performance throughout the fight, Eblen visibly fatigued in the later rounds, allowing van Steenis to seize the opportunity and secure the championship.
The stakes were high, as Eblen, who previously held the Bellator MMA title, was seen as one of the elite fighters outside of the UFC. His fall from grace not only surprises fans but also reshapes the competitive landscape of mixed martial arts.
In the co-main event, Dakota Ditcheva continued her undefeated streak, dominating Sumiko Inaba in a three-round decision. Ditcheva (15-0) showcased her striking prowess, although she suffered a potential injury, breaking her left hand in the final round. Following her victory, Ditcheva announced she has signed a new multi-year agreement with the PFL, stating,
“I just re-signed with PFL. We came to a great agreement. I look forward to the next few years.”
Meanwhile, former Bellator champion AJ McKee (23-2) made a triumphant return to featherweight, defeating Akhmed Magomedov by unanimous decision. McKee, who hadn’t fought at 145 pounds since 2022, displayed his grappling skills and striking accuracy, calling the fight a “welcome home party.”
These latest developments from the PFL not only highlight the unpredictable nature of the sport but also set the stage for thrilling future matchups. Fans are now eager to see how van Steenis will defend his title and how Ditcheva will navigate her new contract with the organization.
Stay tuned for more updates as the PFL continues to shape the world of mixed martial arts.