US EditionBo Nickal gets majro backing from Ariel Helwani after humbling UFC loss
- Bo Nickal suffered his first professional MMA loss by second-round knockout to Reinier de Ridder at UFC Des Moines on May 4, 2025.
- The defeat followed Nickal’s undefeated streak and high expectations but exposed challenges from his drastic 37-pound cut and size disadvantage at middleweight.
- De Ridder, a former ONE Championship two-division titleholder and top grappler, dominated with a brutal liver shot highlighting his strength in the competitive middleweight division.
- Aljamain Sterling acknowledged his earlier concerns about Nickal competing at 185 pounds, highlighting the noticeable physical disadvantage he faced, while Ariel Helwani cautioned against dismissive criticism and expressed confidence in Nickal's future potential.
- The loss has prompted calls for Nickal to consider moving to welterweight and refocus on his career development amid continued support from coaches and former champions.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Michael Bisping Supports Bo Nickal Amid Fan Backlash After Loss
UFC legend Michael Bisping has defended Bo Nickal amid significant backlash following his defeat to Reinier de Ridder at UFC Kansas City. Critics have suggested that Nickal, once seen as a rising star, may not be cut out for elite MMA competition after being decisively overwhelmed. Bisping emphasized the importance of ignoring negativity, urging Nickal to focus on improving and channeling his experiences into personal growth. Despite facing toug…
Bo Nickal’s Challenging Weekend: A Veteran UFC Coach Weighs In on Its Importance
Source link : https://mma-news.info/bo-nickals-challenging-weekend-a-veteran-ufc-coach-weighs-in-on-its-importance/ Bo Nickal’s challenging weekend may have been a necessary experience, according to veteran UFC coach. The tough loss is viewed as a crucial stepping stone in Nickal’s career, potentially strengthening his resolve and preparation for future bouts. —- Author : Ava Thompson Publish date : 2025-05-05 21:15:00 Copyright for syndicated c…
Bo Nickal's coach: 'Bo’s lack of experience showed'
Middleweight prospect Bo Nickal entered Saturday's UFC Des Moines co-main event against Reinier de Ridder with an undefeated 7-0 record and a lot of expectations. The three-time NCAA Division I wrestling national champion suffered his first career loss and has faced criticism. His coach, Mike Brown, opened up about the loss and reminded everyone that Nickal, while talented, lacks octagon experience compared to the top of the division. "Was a to…
Bo Nickal Vows to Return Stronger After First MMA Loss at UFC Des Moines
Bo Nickal, a top UFC middleweight prospect, suffered his first professional defeat on May 3, 2025, against Reinier de Ridder in the co-main event of UFC Des Moines at Wells Fargo Arena in Iowa. The former NCAA wrestling champion, previously 7-0, was stopped in the second round by a knee to the body. Despite this ...
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