Costello van Steenis expects Spain to become annual stop for PFL

Look out, Spain. The PFL could be a permanent fixture of the country's MMA scene. At least that's what middleweight champion Costello van Steenis sees coming.

PFL hosts its first event in Spain on Friday with PFL Madrid, which is headlined by van Steenis' first title defense in a rematch against Fabian Edwards. PFL Madrid ( ESPN+ ) takes place at Palacio Vistalegre. Spain has experienced a quick growth in MMA over the last few years, with many local promotions such as WOW, WAR and AFL having a big imprint.

This largely has been made possible by the success of former UFC featherweight champion and current lightweight titleholder Ilia Topuria , who skyrocketed in popularity and brought MMA into the country's mainstream culture. Now with PFL debuting in a country with a growing fan base, van Steenis expects PFL Madrid to be one of many events held in his country. "I think 100 percent," van Steenis told Hablemos MMA in Spanish when asked if Spain could become an annual visit for PFL.

"I'm thankful I was able to open the doors, and now PFL will see how the fans are here in Spain and in Madrid. Maybe next time, the event could be in Marbella or Alicante, Valencia. This one is in Madrid, the capital of Spain, and we're going to leave them impressed.