URGENT UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, former Bellator MMA title challenger Fabian Edwards knocked out Dalton Rosta with a spectacular head kick at the PFL World Tournament finals on September 28, 2023. The decisive blow came at just 1:28 in the third round, mirroring the iconic kick his brother, Leon Edwards, delivered to win the UFC championship three years ago.
The bout took place in Hollywood, Florida, where Edwards (16-4) showcased his striking prowess, securing a stunning victory and the coveted $500,000 tournament prize. This win marks a significant turnaround for Edwards, who previously faced setbacks in two championship fights under the Bellator banner.
Edwards’ victory was not only about the prize; it symbolized redemption after falling short against former champion Johnny Eblen in 2023 and 2024. During the match against Rosta (11-2), Edwards demonstrated resilience, overcoming early takedowns in the first two rounds to deliver his sixth career knockout.
“I felt the moment, and I knew I had to capitalize,” said Edwards after the fight. “This win is for my family and all the fans who supported me.”
In addition to Edwards’ triumph, the PFL finals featured compelling matches in other weight classes. At heavyweight, Oleg Popov (22-2), a protégé of MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko, claimed victory over Alexander Romanov (19-4) by split decision, marking his first PFL tournament championship.
In the light heavyweight division, Antonio Carlos Jr. (19-6) secured his second PFL tournament title with a second-round submission of Sullivan Cauley (8-1). Despite facing a challenging fight, Carlos Jr. managed to finish Cauley on the ground amid a fierce contest.
The PFL World Tournament finals showcased not only Edwards’ remarkable finish but also the depth of talent across divisions. This event promises to shape the future of MMA and elevate these fighters’ careers. Fans eagerly await what’s next for Edwards, who is now positioned as a top contender in the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates on the PFL and the latest developments in MMA as these athletes continue to push boundaries and thrill audiences worldwide.