Fabian Edwards and Brother Leon Open MMA Gym to Give Back to the Sport That Transformed Their Lives

FABIAN EDWARDS is gearing up to open an MMA gym alongside his brother Leon, aiming to give back to the sport that helped them overcome a life of crime.

Hailing from Jamaica, Edwards spent his early years in a one-bedroom wooden house until his family moved to England when he was seven and Leon was nine.

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After their move to Birmingham, the family suffered a tragedy when their father was killed in a nightclub incident in 2004.

Leon began his MMA journey at 17, followed by Fabian five years later.

Fabian, the younger brother, acknowledges that MMA played a crucial role in steering them away from a life of crime in Birmingham’s tough surroundings.

By entering the Professional Fighters League’s $500,000 tournament, Fabian clearly stated his ambition to start his own gym.

After reaching the final against American Dalton Rosta, he stands on the brink of achieving that dream.

At 33, Edwards told SunSport: “The objective remains to establish a gym and café. It’s about giving back to the community. Creating something of our own is essential, especially as my brother and I near retirement.”

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Looking back at his challenging youth, Edwards highlighted MMA’s significant role in his transformation.

“It’s odd because as a child, I never imagined being where I am today,” he reflected.

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“This wasn’t a dream of mine; I was just wandering aimlessly. Yet, I’ve changed my life, all thanks to the discipline and focus that MMA has instilled in me.

“I want to demonstrate to children facing similar circumstances that success is achievable, whether through MMA or other routes.”

Edwards advanced to the final in Florida by defeating former PFL champion Impa Kasanganay and Josh Silveira.

However, neither the title nor the $500,000 (£350,000) prize are more important to him than being a positive influence in his community.

“Inspiring just one person and changing their life is incredible,” he emphasized.

“Titles and money will eventually fade, but the lasting impact on someone’s life is invaluable.”

Before embarking on the 4,000-mile journey to face Rosta, Edwards said goodbye to his two sons and baby daughter.

Interestingly, his children are more excited about American candy than any title or monetary reward.

Edwards chuckled: “They couldn’t care less about that! All they want is for me to bring back sweets!”

“What they understand is that I’m fighting in America; they’re just eager for treats. I’m like, ‘Of course, I will!’ They don’t realize the work that goes into this.

“They have everything they need, thanks to the opportunities MMA has provided me.”

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