Full Breakdown
Upcoming PFL Fights: A Five-Week Showcase
3/20/2026, 3:10:16 PM
Overview of the PFL's New Direction
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is set to embark on a transformative five-week series of fight cards, beginning on March 28, 2026. This marks a significant shift for the organization, which has previously experimented with various formats, including a season-long tournament structure. The PFL will now revert to traditional matchmaking, featuring events in major cities across the United States and Europe.
Key Matchups to Watch
The PFL's upcoming events will showcase several notable fights, including a championship bout and high-stakes matchups involving former UFC fighters.
Championship Bout: Costello van Steenis vs. Fabian Edwards
The only championship fight during this stretch will see Costello van Steenis defend his middleweight title against Fabian Edwards. Van Steenis, who won the title in a dramatic finish last July, faces a challenger in Edwards, who has previously lost to him and has a history of competing at a high level, including a recent 3-0 record in the 2025 PFL tournament.
Notable Fights: AJ McKee vs. Adam Borics
Another significant matchup features AJ McKee, a former Bellator featherweight champion, against Adam Borics, a title challenger from the same promotion. This fight marks a long-awaited clash between two fighters who have been on the cusp of facing each other for years.
PFL Pittsburgh: Johnny Eblen vs. Bryan Battle
On March 28, Johnny Eblen will return to the cage against Bryan Battle, who is making his PFL debut after a stint in the UFC. Eblen, a former middleweight champion, seeks to rebound from a recent loss, while Battle aims to prove himself after being released from the UFC due to weight issues.
PFL Chicago: Sergio Pettis vs. Mitch McKee
On April 11, Sergio Pettis, a former Bellator bantamweight champion, will face Mitch McKee, who is looking to make a name for himself in this high-profile matchup. Pettis has a strong local following, which could play a role in the fight's atmosphere.
Upcoming Events and Locations
The PFL's series will take place in various cities, including Pittsburgh and Chicago, culminating in an event in Belfast on April 16. This event will feature Paul Hughes, a local fighter, looking to regain momentum after recent title fight losses.
Official Statements & Responses
The PFL has expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming events, emphasizing their commitment to providing exciting matchups and showcasing talent from various backgrounds. The organization aims to attract both dedicated MMA fans and new viewers through its innovative fight formats.
Criticism & Opposition
While the PFL's new direction has garnered interest, some critics argue that the return to traditional matchmaking may not be as engaging as the tournament format. Detractors suggest that the unpredictability of tournaments adds excitement that could be lost in standard fight cards.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are differing opinions on the impact of the PFL's format changes. Some analysts believe that the traditional approach will enhance the quality of fights, while others fear it may lead to less competitive matchups. The long-term effects of these changes on the PFL's popularity remain to be seen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Fittingly, it will be a test of whether either fighter has championship mettle.” — ESPN Analyst
- “He's sure to be in a foul mood and ready to hit someone after a disappointing departure from the Octagon.” — Bryan Battle
- “For McKee, this will be the biggest fight of his career, a massive test for his 10-0 record.” — Mitch McKee
The PFL's upcoming events promise to deliver a mix of established stars and emerging talent, setting the stage for an exciting period in mixed martial arts.
