Over the last four years, Fabian Edwards has suffered just two defeats, both in championship fights against Johnny Eblen in Bellator and PFL. His upcoming opponent in Friday`s PFL 7 tournament semifinal, Josh Silveira, actually played the role of Edwards during Eblen`s training camps at American Top Team in Florida.
“I impersonated him,” Silveira shared. “I acted as him for Johnny`s training because I`m also a southpaw fighter. I grasp his approach and have analyzed him extensively. If he anticipates this being an effortless victory, that works perfectly for me. I welcome that notion. I recognize I`m a challenging opponent and am fully prepared for a tough fight.”
Even though he twice simulated Edwards to aid Eblen in past preparations, Silveira feels his actual fighting style bears no resemblance to the British competitor`s.
“He`s difficult to mimic because he avoids takedowns and doesn`t exert constant pressure,” Silveira explained. “I, however, am a pressure fighter. When training for Johnny, I replicated his kicking techniques. He prefers accumulating points and finishes fights infrequently. He doesn`t typically pursue takedowns or back control. I`ve watched a lot of footage on him. He`s skilled, but I`m confident I know how to defeat him.”
Silveira mentioned that the undefeated Eblen provided valuable guidance during his camp. Witnessing Eblen and Edwards` intense fight in the cage led the son of ATT head Conan Silveira to acknowledge that Edwards “delivered a great performance, so I must show him respect.”
Being listed as such a significant betting underdog for the first time in his career, Silveira believes this places immense pressure on Edwards to win.
“He`s a respected name, a skilled competitor, it`s a semifinal – there`s considerable stake involved,” Silveira commented. “Comparing our careers, he`s contended for the title twice against fighters from my gym. He even defeated someone I lost to twice. So, statistically, some might argue he holds an advantage, but personally, I see us as quite comparable.”
The victor of the Silveira vs. Edwards bout will advance to the $500,000 grand prix championship round, facing the winner of the simultaneous Dalton Rosta vs. Aaron Jeffery fight also happening in Chicago.
“We`ve reached a stage where every fight is demanding,” Silveira stated. “You have to abandon the idea of an easy opponent; those don`t exist anymore at this level. What`s different now is my self-awareness regarding my life`s journey and the significance of this opportunity. My task is simply to perform. I anticipate feeling stress and nerves, but that`s inherent to the process. I am prepared for this challenge.”
He added, “Based on statistics, you`re expected to defeat me. On paper, you`re the predicted winner, but actual fights don`t always align with predictions. I`ve witnessed numerous instances where paper predictions failed to materialize. Ultimately, I hold great respect for him and his family. His brother, Leon Edwards, was also a champion; they`ve significantly impacted the sport in England and represent their nation admirably. I respect him, yet I`ve also seen fighters from my team overcome him.”
Apart from Eblen, the only fighters to solve Edwards` style were Costello van Steenis and Austin Vanderford, who both secured decision victories in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Silveira observes parallels between Fabian`s fighting approach and that of his brother, Leon Edwards, the former UFC welterweight champion currently looking to rebound after recent significant losses to Belal Muhammad and Sean Brady.
“They perform well advancing, possessing solid boxing and kickboxing skills, but they tend to struggle under pressure,” Silveira commented. “I intend to apply my pressure to force him into retreating and create opportunities for myself. While I have a wrestling background, I don`t consistently utilize it in my matches. Occasionally, I prefer to stand and exchange strikes. My approach will depend on the situation during the fight, but I am committed to moving forward and applying pressure.”
He added, “Frankly, I believe my style presents a difficult challenge for him. I`m a wrestler with a background in jiu-jitsu. If I gain top position and secure back control, I`m confident I can finish the fight via submission. He has been knocked out previously. I possess a strong chin – thankfully, I`ve never been knocked out, and I hope not to on the 27th, but if necessary, I`m willing to stand and trade blows with him. Regardless, it promises to be an excellent spectacle.”
