Fabian Edwards has a strong record over the past four years, with his only two losses coming in title contests against Johnny Eblen in Bellator and PFL. Josh Silveira, set to face Edwards in a tournament semifinal this Friday at PFL 7, previously played a key role in Eblen`s preparation camps at American Top Team in Florida – by mimicking Edwards.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Silveira explained, “I was him in training for Johnny because I’m also a southpaw. I’ve already studied him extensively and understand his style. If he thinks it’s going to be an easy fight, that’s just fine with me. I welcome that idea. I know I pose a difficult challenge and I’m fully prepared for a tough fight.”
Despite having simulated Edwards’ fighting style to help Eblen on two occasions, Silveira maintains that he is nothing like the British fighter himself.
“It’s challenging to imitate him because he doesn’t favor takedowns or applying constant pressure,” Silveira said. “In contrast, I am a fighter who thrives on putting pressure on my opponents. For Johnny, I focused on replicating Edwards’ kicks. He tends to score points and finishes fights less frequently. He doesn`t typically go for takedowns or seek back control… I`ve watched a lot of footage of him. He’s clearly talented, but I am confident I know the strategy required to defeat him.”
Silveira mentioned that the undefeated Eblen offered crucial advice during his camp. Watching Eblen’s competitive bouts against Edwards led Silveira, the son of ATT leader Conan Silveira, to conclude that Edwards “gave him a great fight, so I have to respect him.”
Being the most significant underdog in his career according to the odds, Silveira feels this scenario places considerable pressure squarely on Edwards.
“He’s a fighter with a good reputation, a skilled opponent, it’s a semifinal – there’s a lot at stake,” Silveira commented. “Comparing our careers, he has fought for the belt twice against my team. He defeated the fighter I lost to twice. So, strictly on paper, some might conclude he’s superior, but personally, I see our skill levels as quite similar.”
The winner of the Silveira vs. Edwards contest will advance to the $500,000 grand prix final. They will face the victor of the Dalton Rosta vs. Aaron Jeffery matchup, which is also scheduled for the same night in Chicago.
“We’ve reached a stage where the fights will always be demanding,” Silveira stated. “You have to discard any notion of expecting an easy fight. That just doesn’t happen anymore at this level. The crucial difference now is my clear understanding of my current position and how significant this moment is for me. I must step in there and execute my plan. I anticipate feeling stressed and nervous, but those are inherent parts of this profession. I am fully prepared for this challenge.”
He continued, “Based on predictions, I’m expected to lose. On paper, the assumption is you will win, but that’s not how fighting ultimately works. I’ve witnessed many instances where predictions made on paper did not match the reality of the fight. At the end of the day, I have immense respect for him and his family. His brother [Leon Edwards] was also a champion; they have significantly impacted the sport and represented England exceptionally well. I respect him, but I have also seen members of my team emerge victorious against him.”
Aside from Eblen, the only fighters who have defeated Edwards were Costello van Steenis and Austin Vanderford, both by decision in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Silveira sees resemblances between Fabian’s fighting style and that of his brother, former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards, who is currently working to recover his standing after recent defeats.
“They perform well when they are advancing, and they possess good boxing and kickboxing skills, but they appear uncomfortable when pressured,” Silveira analyzed. “I plan to apply significant pressure, forcing him to move backward and allowing me to dictate the terms of the fight. Although I am primarily a wrestler, I don’t always showcase that aspect in my fights. Sometimes I am equally comfortable standing and trading strikes. I will assess the situation in the cage and adapt, but I am definitely going to move forward and apply pressure.”
“Honestly, I genuinely believe my style is a difficult matchup for him,” he added. “I combine wrestling skills with a strong foundation in jiu-jitsu. If I gain top position and secure his back, I am capable of finishing this fight with a submission. He has also been knocked out previously in his career. I have proven durability – thankfully, I have never been knocked out myself, and I intend to keep it that way this fight, but if the situation demands that I stand and exchange punches with him, I am absolutely willing to do so. Regardless of how it unfolds, it is guaranteed to be an exciting performance.”
Percy Harlow