Fabian Edwards is planning to establish an MMA gym with his brother Leon, intending to give back to the sport that has profoundly shaped their lives.
Born in Jamaica, Edwards spent his early childhood in a modest one-bedroom wooden house. His family relocated to England when he was seven, and Leon was nine.
Their upbringing continued in London before they moved to Birmingham. Tragically, in 2004, their father was murdered in a nightclub.
Leon, a former UFC champion, began his MMA journey at 17, with his younger brother Fabian joining five years later.
Fabian, only a year younger than Leon, acknowledges that MMA was instrumental in steering them away from potential involvement in crime in Birmingham`s challenging environment.
Winning the $500,000 prize from the Professional Fighters League tournament would enable him to realize his ambition of opening his own gym.
Edwards, 32, shared, “I have a house, and the winnings would likely go towards paying it off and making some investments.”
He clarified, “Opening a gym with my brother is the priority; the motivation isn`t to acquire luxury items like fast cars.”
“The goal is to use the prize money to secure our future, essentially life after fighting. That`s how I approach fighting – as a means to ensure stability for the future.”
He reflects on how his spending priorities have changed since the beginning of his career.
He admits, “If I were 25, my reaction would be different, probably focusing on immediate spending. But now at 32, with three children, and grateful for my current position, smart financial decisions for long-term security are paramount.”
Having found direction through MMA, Edwards is keen to offer similar guidance to young people in Birmingham facing difficulties.
He stated, “I am passionate about giving back to Birmingham, especially to those in situations I recognize from my own childhood. This is definitely a path we intend to pursue.”
“It`s not just about becoming a professional fighter,” Edwards emphasizes, “The discipline instilled by MMA is invaluable in all aspects of life.”
“Even if I were to retire from MMA today, the mindset it has cultivated – understanding the importance of hard work and discipline – is universally beneficial.”
“I believe many young people could benefit from this mindset, whether they pursue fighting or use its principles as a foundation for other ambitions.”
Edwards is set to face Impa Kasanganay, a former PFL light-heavyweight champion, next Friday in Florida.
This fight is the first in a potentially three-stage tournament where winners are awarded a $500,000 bonus.
Regarding facing a formidable opponent early in the tournament, Edwards remarked, “Why avoid facing the toughest competitor? I prefer to challenge myself against the best from the outset.”
“My approach is to confront the strongest contender in the tournament and proceed from there.”
Elton Marrow