PFL: Fabian Edwards Ready to Face Madrid's Home Favorite – With a Surprising Connection to a Care Home and Plants
As PFL lands in Madrid this weekend, all eyes will be on the local hero – but his opponent, Fabian Edwards, is no stranger to hostile territory. The Birmingham native has spent his career battling fan favorites 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 connects the grit of combat sports with the quiet warmth of everyday life.
"I've Always Felt at Home on Foreign Soil"
Edwards has faced down hostile crowds numerous times throughout his career. It's familiar ground, as he puts it: "Once I step into that cage, I don't hear the crowd – my focus is solely on my opponent and my own game plan." This mindset has carried him through countless tough battles, and in Madrid, he aims to turn the home-field advantage on its head once again. The local crowd might be electric, but Edwards possesses weapons that go beyond physical prowess.
A Care Home, Plants, and Caregiving: The Softer Side of a Fighter
When Edwards isn't training or preparing for a fight, he spends time at the care home run by his mother in their hometown suburb. "My mom has always wanted to help those who are less fortunate, and I've been a part of that since I was a kid. It taught me patience and compassion – qualities you definitely need inside the cage," Edwards shares. He visits the home weekly to chat with residents and sometimes helps out with daily tasks. "It gives you perspective: the world doesn't just revolve around wins and losses."
His other passion is plants. Edwards' home is filled with greenery that he tends to himself. "Fussing over plants calms my mind. They don't ask for much, but they give so much back. It's meditation at its finest." He's even started a small website where he shares tips on houseplant care – a hobby that has surprised many of his followers. "A lot of people think a fighter's life is just about beating people up, but the reality is, you need balance. Plants are a big part of my balance."
Edwards is also actively involved in conversations around caregiving and home care. He has a family member who requires constant assistance, and he has personally acted as a caregiver. "It's demanding but rewarding work. These services are stretched thin in both the UK and elsewhere, and I want to use my small platform to highlight how crucial they are." He collaborates with local charities and participates in campaigns supporting the well-being of caregivers.
Three Things That Make Edwards an Exceptional Athlete
- Growing up around a care home – a people-focused environment taught him to listen and read the room, skills that translate directly to the cage.
- His plant hobby – provides mental peace and aids recovery after grueling training sessions.
- Experience as a caregiver – has strengthened his mental fortitude and ability to handle pressure.
Facing Madrid's Lion – And a Free Broadcast on Multiple Platforms
Saturday's opponent is nearly unbeatable in his home cage, but Edwards has a plan. "He's tough, but I've seen holes in his game. The key is to stay calm and capitalize on every opportunity." The fight is part of PFL's European tour and will be streamed live for free on various sports media platforms – giving fans an easy way to catch the action from their living rooms.
Although Edwards is used to hostile environments, he admits that 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' heart always has room for the gentler things – the care home, the plants, and the importance of caregiving. They make him not just a dangerous opponent, but a person with a story that resonates.