PFL: Fabian Edwards Takes on Home Favorite in Madrid – With a Surprising Connection to a Care Home and Plants
As the PFL touches down in Madrid this weekend, all eyes will be on the local hero – but his opponent, Fabian Edwards, is no stranger to a hostile environment. Birmingham’s own has spent years battling crowd 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 weaves together the grit of combat sports with the quiet warmth of everyday life.
“I’ve always felt at home on enemy turf”
Throughout his career, Edwards has frequently fought in front of hostile crowds. It’s familiar territory. “When I step into the cage, I don’t hear the noise – I just lock in on my opponent and my own game plan,” he says. That mindset has carried him through countless tough battles, and in Madrid, he plans to flip the script on home-field advantage once again. The local crowd might be electric, but Edwards has 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 local community. “My mom has always wanted to help those who are less fortunate, and I’ve been part of that since I was a kid. It taught me patience and compassion – qualities you definitely need in the cage too,” Edwards shares. He visits the home weekly, chatting with residents and sometimes helping out with daily tasks. “It gives you perspective: the world doesn’t revolve around wins and losses.”
Another passion of his is plants. Edwards’ home is filled with greenery, all cared for by his own hand. “Tending to 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 hitting things, but really, you need balance. Plants are a part of my balance.”
Edwards is also actively involved in conversations around caregiving and home care. A close person in his life requires constant assistance, and he has personally taken on the role of a caregiver. “It’s tough but rewarding work. In the UK, these services are stretched thin, and I want to use my small platform to highlight how important they are.” He collaborates with local charities and supports campaigns aimed at helping caregivers manage their well-being.
Three Things That Make Edwards an Unusual Athlete
- Growing up in a care home – A people-focused environment taught him to listen and read emotions, skills that translate directly to the cage.
- His plant hobby – Provides peace of mind and aids recovery from intense training.
- Experience as a caregiver – Has strengthened his mental resilience and ability to handle pressure.
Facing the Lion of Madrid – And a Free Broadcast on Multiple Platforms
Saturday’s opponent is nearly untouchable in his home cage, but Edwards has a plan. “He’s tough, but I’ve seen openings. The key is to stay cool and capitalize on every chance.” The fight is part of the PFL’s European tour and will be streamed live for free on several sports media platforms – making it easy for fans to catch elite-level action from their own 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’ heart always has room for gentler values – the care home, his plants, and the importance of caregiving. They make him not just a dangerous opponent, but a person with a story that resonates.