Davion Franklin (Credit: PFL)
Davion Frankiln embracing next chapter of his career ahead of PFL debut
It’s been approximately 8 months since former Top-10 Bellator heavyweight contender Davion Franklin was in action, and the layoff is certainly part of what led him to answer the short-notice call for the new opportunity in his young career. The last time he fought, Franklin suffered a knee injury in his fight against Slim Trabelsi at Bellator 300 in October of last year and as he rehabbed for his return to competition, Franklin went through major changes in both his professional and personal life.
Just a couple weeks before the event, PFL called Davion Franklin with an opportunity to join their heavyweight season in the second round, he knew it was a call he couldn’t pass up. Preparing for a fight against Oleg Popov at PFL 4 would allow him the chance to show an improved version of himself as he worked back from injury, while his personal life was thriving.
Welcoming his first-born child, his daughter, to the world earlier this year, Franklin acknowledges there’s more to fight for at this stage of his career, and his purpose is much more than just being a fighter. Speaking to MyMMANews ahead of his PFL debut, Franklin discussed how his personal life changes and the birth of his daughter all played a major role in the buildup to his return to action.
Having cut out alcohol and smoking from his life, Franklin has focused on making the most of his new opportunity with the PFL. Starting his career off undefeated and going on a run upon making his debut with Bellator MMA in 2020, Franklin skyrocketed into the promotion’s Top-10 rankings, something he said provided him with plenty of life and career lessons.
With a clear mind, greater purpose, and new opportunity ahead of him, Davion Franklin will enter the PFL heavyweight season as the next chapter of his MMA career. Enduring the up-and-downs of being a highly-touted prospect has taught him plenty, but the opportunity afforded to him by being part of the PFL season could bring his dream of being a world champion into reality.
Watch the video above for the full interview with Davion Franklin ahead of his PFL debut at PFL 4 on Thursday, June 13, at the Mohegan Sun Arena.
Fans can watch the event on ESPN+ starting at 5:30pm ET.
