Costello van Steenis is ready to run it back. The reigning PFL middleweight champion has his sights set on a familiar foe for his next title defense, and he’s not shying away from the challenge.

Since van Steenis (18-3) dramatically snatched the title from Johnny Eblen (17-1) with a last-second submission in July 2025—a finish that swept MMA Junkie’s Submission and Comeback of the Year honors—the rivalry has simmered. Eblen has been vocal in his campaign for a rematch, a call that grew louder after his recent victory over former UFC fighter Bryan Battle at PFL Pittsburgh.

Now, van Steenis is answering that call. In a recent interview with Hablemos MMA, the champion acknowledged Eblen's impressive win but made it clear he’s motivated by more than just competition. "I prefer to fight Eblen so I can shut his mouth once again," van Steenis stated, referencing comments from Eblen that have downplayed their first encounter. For van Steenis, a second fight is about proving his championship victory was no fluke.

Fresh off a dominant first title defense—a knockout of Fabian Edwards at PFL Madrid in March—van Steenis is in a position to call his shots. While he expressed admiration for another top contender, the dangerous Impa Kasanganay, his priority seems clear. "I think my next fight for sure is either going to be against Impa or Eblen," he said, leaving the final matchmaking to the PFL brass. "If I have to fight first Eblen and then Impa, then let's go."

This potential rematch isn't just personal; it's a showcase for the PFL's growing talent pool. Van Steenis pointed to victories over UFC veterans as proof the league is elite. "You put the top five of the UFC against the top five of the PFL, and you'll have many people wide-eyed," he argued, framing the fight as a statement for the entire organization.

For fight fans and the middleweight division, a van Steenis vs. Eblen sequel promises high stakes and intense drama. It’s a chance for Eblen to reclaim gold and for van Steenis to solidify his reign by defeating the man he took the belt from, potentially silencing the doubters for good.