Eblen vs. Kasanganay rematch replaces van Steenis at PFL Austin
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 5:25 PM
Last updated Jun 5, 2026

The Professional Fighters League has announced a change to the main event for PFL Austin on July 18, 2026, after reigning Middleweight champion Costello van Steenis withdrew due to injury. Johnny Eblen, the former champion, will now fight Impa Kasanganay for the interim Middleweight title. This rematch follows a closely contested bout in 2024, where Eblen edged Kasanganay by a split decision. Eblen is coming off a first-round submission victory over Bryan Battle, while Kasanganay is riding a two-fight win streak, including a knockout of Dalton Rosta. The card will still feature other notable matchups.
- •Costello van Steenis withdraws from PFL Austin main event due to injury.
- •Johnny Eblen faces Impa Kasanganay for interim Middleweight title.
- •Eblen and Kasanganay previously fought in 2024, with Eblen winning narrowly.
- •Eblen enters the bout following a submission win over Bryan Battle.
- •Kasanganay has two consecutive victories, including a recent knockout.
- 5:25 PMYahoo Sports — Shake up! PFL Austin loses heated main event rematch, gains another rematch
"Changes are happening in Texas. Professional Fighters League (PFL) Middleweight champion Johnny Eblen will have to wait a little longer to reclaim his title. According to promotion officials, reigning champion Costello van Steenis has been forced out of his highly anticipated rematch against Eblen, which was scheduled to headline PFL Austin on July 18, 2026, […]
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