PFL CEO calls Eblen-Van Steenis rematch biggest fight in company history

The Costello van Steenis vs. Johnny Eblen rematch is the biggest fight in Professional Fighters League history, according to the promotion's CEO.

In an interview posted by the PFL on X, John Martin reflected on the rivalry between Eblen and van Steenis, revealing his disappointment with the injury that forced their scheduled rematch to be postponed. He also recalled the chaotic scene that followed Eblen's interim title victory over Impa Kasanganay.

John Martin points to the bad blood behind Johnny Eblen and Costello van Steenis’ postponed title rematch
After Eblen won his fight against Kasanganay, van Steenis unexpectedly entered the cage, setting the stage for a dramatic title unification showdown. Martin's comments suggest the promotion still sees the matchup as a major attraction.

“That was a skirmish in the cage afterwards when Costello unexpectedly climbed in,” Martin said. “And I got a little nervous.” The PFL CEO also recalled Eblen telling him, “I'm going after him right now,” before he replied, “Alright, please, because I'm the one that's going to end up getting hurt in this.”

He then emphasized the significance of the rematch and the bad blood between the two.

“That fight, when that happens, that is going to be the biggest fight in the history of the PFL,” Martin added. “Those guys do not like each other.”

Eblen and van Steenis locked horns for the first time in July 2025, when the latter secured a late submission win, marking the lone defeat of the former’s career so far.

PFL CEO John Martin recaps the incredible night in Tampa 🔥

What a way to close out the PFL Summer Series!#PFLTampa presented by @visitspc | 📺LIVE NOW on ESPN pic.twitter.com/MsnMX466CL— PFL (@PFLMMA) August 23, 2026