Johnny Eblen exudes confidence as he anticipates his upcoming bout against Impa Kasanganay, firmly believing he possesses the skill to emerge victorious against tougher competition.
Set to face Kasanganay (15-3) at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champions event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Feb. 24, the Bellator middleweight champion emphasizes that his confidence does not stem from disrespect towards his opponent.
Rather, Eblen asserts that his past encounters with high-caliber fighters and his unbeaten record have fortified his belief in his abilities.
“I believe I’ve encountered every challenge that Impa is capable of presenting,” Eblen conveyed to MMA Junkie Radio. “He’s a durable boxer who presses forward, a well-built athlete. But these attributes are nothing new to me. I’ve faced tougher opponents in the past, and while I don’t underestimate him, I approach every fight with the same intensity, treating each opponent as the toughest I’ve faced. When I step into that cage, he’ll realize the consequences of signing that contract. I bring a different level of intensity.”
Maintaining an unblemished professional record at 14-0, Eblen has tested his skills against formidable adversaries like Gegard Mousasi, Fabian Edwards, and Anatoly Tokov.
Not content with merely securing victory, the American Top Team representative envisions a dominant performance against Kasanganay.
“I foresee a finish or a one-sided affair, where the outcome is beyond doubt,” Eblen remarked. “This is typically how my fights unfold. Even when the scorecards may appear close, I consistently outclass my opponents with my wrestling, versatile approach, footwork, and control of distance. I don’t anticipate leaving it to the judges, but if it does, the result will be crystal clear.”