PFL Madrid: Fabian Edwards ready to take on the local hero – with a surprising link to aged care and pot plants
As PFL touches down in Madrid this weekend, all eyes will be on the local favourite – but his opponent, Fabian Edwards, is no stranger to hostile territory. The Birmingham native has spent his career taking on fan favourites in their own backyards, and Saturday will be no different. But this time, he's bringing more than just his fists to Spain. He's bringing a story that weaves together the brutal world of combat sports with the simple warmth of everyday life.
"I've always felt at home on enemy soil"
Throughout his career, Edwards has frequently fought against the crowd's wishes. It's familiar territory. "Once I step in that cage, I don't hear the noise," he says. "I'm just locked in on my opponent and my own game plan." It's a mindset that's carried him through countless tough battles, and in Madrid, he plans to flip the home-field advantage on its head. The local fans might be in a frenzy, but Edwards has weapons that go beyond the physical.
Aged care, pot plants, and caregiving: the softer side of a fighter
When Edwards isn't training or preparing for a bout, he spends time at the aged care home his mum runs in their local suburb. "Mum's always wanted to help those who need a bit of extra support, and I've been involved since I was a kid. It taught me patience and compassion – qualities you definitely need in the cage," Edwards explains. He visits the home weekly to chat with residents and sometimes helps out with daily tasks. "It gives you perspective: the world doesn't revolve around wins and losses."
His other passion is pot plants. Edwards's home is filled with greenery that he nurtures himself. "Tinkering with the plants calms my mind. They don't ask for much, but they give so much back. It's meditation, pure and simple." He's even set up a small website where he shares tips on indoor plant care – a hobby that's surprised many of his followers. "A lot of people think a fighter's life is just about bashing someone, but really, you need balance. The plants are part of my balance."
Edwards is also an active voice in conversations around caregiving and home care. Someone close to him requires constant help, and Edwards has been a caregiver himself. "It's tough but rewarding work. In the UK, these services are under a lot of pressure, and I want to use my platform to highlight how crucial they are." He collaborates with local charities and supports campaigns focused on caregiver wellbeing.
Three things that make Edwards an exceptional athlete
- Growing up around an aged care home – a people-focused environment taught him to listen and read the room, skills that translate directly to the cage.
- His love for pot plants – provides mental peace and helps him recover from intense training sessions.
- His experience as a caregiver – has built mental resilience and the ability to handle immense pressure.
Facing the lion of Madrid – and a free broadcast on multiple platforms
His opponent on Saturday is nearly unstoppable in his own backyard, but Edwards has a plan. "He's tough, but I've seen gaps. The key is to stay cool and capitalise on every chance I get." The fight is part of PFL's European tour and will be streamed live for free on various sports media platforms – making it easy for fans to catch the action from the comfort of their couch.
Though Edwards is used to hostile crowds, he admits a trip to Madrid is always special. "Spanish fans live and breathe this sport. It brings out the best in both me and my opponent." And while the talk inside the cage is fierce, Edwards's heart will always have room for the softer things in life – the aged care home, his pot plants, and the importance of caregiving. They don't just make him a dangerous opponent; they make him a bloke with a story that truly resonates.