Johnny Eblen Escapes with a Split Decision Win Over Impa Kasanganay – PFL vs. Bellator Results (Highlights)

Eblen maintains undefeated streak in hard-fought win against Kasanganay.

Written by Craig Pekios
Last updated on February 24th, 2024
Johnny Eblen
Courtesy of @PFLMMA on X

Reigning Bellator MMA middleweight champion Johnny Eblen made his PFL debut on Saturday inside the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

Stepping into the co-main event spotlight, Eblen squared off with the 2023 PFL Light Heavyweight Tournament winner Impa Kasanganay for ultimate bragging rights and a shiny new belt equipped with a Super Bowl champion-style ring. 

Round 1

Both fighters move right to the center of the cage and Eblen unloads a calf kick before shooting in for a single-leg takedown on Kasanganay. Eblen drags his man to the canvas, but Kasanganay uses the cage wall to get back to his feet. Eblen refuses to relinquish the hold, clinching against the fence and landing a sneaky elbow strike followed by a solid knee. Kasanganay pushes his way off the cage and separates from Eblen with three minutes to go in the round.

Eblen lands a solid jab before going back to the lead leg. Kasanganay unleashes a combination, landing a nice right hand in the process. Kasanganay throws a front kick that narrowly misses the forehead of Eblen. They stand and trade in the center of the cage as Kasanganay begins to find his rage. Kasanganay closes the round with a quick flying knee attempt that partially connects. 

Round 2

Eblen opens the round with a big body kick. Kasanganay responds with a stiff combination, ramping up the aggression. Kasanganay rocks Eblen. The Bellator champ changes levels as Kasanganay continues to unleash a flurry of strikes in the opening round. Eblen grabs hold of a double leg against the cage, but can’t finish it, allowing Kasanganay to break free and let his hands go once again. 

Eblen quickly clinches against the fence and works Kasanganay back to the mat. Eblen takes Kasanganay’s back and maintains a dominant position for the remainder of the round. 

Round 3

With the fight on the line, they come out swinging in the opening moments of the third. Eblen is the aggressor in the first 90 seconds, looking to land a big right hand as Kasanganay skirts the outside to avoid the danger. Kasanganay is not showing any urgency, perhaps believing he is up two rounds. Eblen lands a nice left hook. Kasanganay responds with a slick slip ‘n rip. Eblen begins marching forward, throwing a flurry, but Kasanganay makes his pay with a stiff straight right.

With just over a minute and a half left, Eblen scores a huge takedown against the fence. Kasanganay attempts a reversal, but it’s quickly shut down by Eblen who takes Kasanganay’s back. Eblen slaps on the body triangle and maintains control until the final horn sounds. 

Official Result: Johnny Eblen def. Impa Kasanganay via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Check Out Highlights From Johnny Eblen vs. Impa Kasanganay at PFL vs. Bellator: 

 

Published on February 24, 2024 at 5:20 pm
Stay up-to-date with the latest MMA news, rumors, and updates by following the RED Monster on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, don't forget to add MiddleEasy to your Google News feed Follow us on Google News for even more coverage.
FlipboardRedditWhatsAppPinterestLinkedIn
Craig Pekios

Craig Pekios
Covering the world of Mixed Martial Arts since 2012. Providing the latest news, picks, scores, results, and commentary on the world of MMA.

Related

Leave a Comment