Johnny Eblen Relishes Underdog Role at Bellator 282: ‘It’s Gonna Start My Legacy’

Some think that jumping into a title shot at this point in his career might be a little too much, too soon for Johnny Eblen.

But after taking a clear-cut victory over former No. 1 contender John Salter at Bellator 276, Eblen believes he is exactly where he’s supposed to be: preparing for a middleweight title shot against Gegard Mousasi in the Bellator 282 headliner on June 24.

“I think we’re right on the right path,” he said at a Bellator 282 virtual press conference. “This is the next best fight for me.”

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After cutting his teeth in MMA with four victories under the Shamrock FC banner, Eblen has gone 7-0 in Bellator. Salter is his most notable victory by far, but the resume of past opponents pales in comparison to that of Mousasi’s. However, Eblen is confident that he hasn’t shown his full potential in a fight as of yet.

“I like being the underdog. I really don’t mind it. The only thing that matters is when I’m in that cage and I’m putting on a show and I’m showing what I’m really capable of with high-level opponents,” Eblen said. “People that know me, people that watch me train, people that watch me spar know what I’m capable of. I haven’t really shown what I’m capable of with high level opponents like Gegard. That’s why I’m really excited to put on a show and fight him for five rounds.”

Eblen realizes that a victory over Mousasi, one of Bellator’s top talents and one of the top middleweights in the world, will raise his profile considerably.

“Of course I’ve thought about it. Yeah, It’s gonna solidify my name and it’s gonna start my legacy,” he said. “I think I’ve already started my legacy and people are starting to take notice. This is going to put a big exclamation point after my name. People are actually going to be talking about me.”

Mousasi has said that he doesn’t expect any surprises from Eblen, who is known primarily for his wrestling. To expect a one dimensional game plan would be a mistake, Eblen warns.

“I think it’s gonna be fun. I like Gegard’s style. There’s things I can do based off his style,” Eblen said. “I’m sure he’s thinking the same thing about me … It’s gonna be exciting. Don’t think I’m just gonna come in and wrestle. I’m a lot more than a wrestler.”