Up-and-coming MMA fighter Bo Nickal still finds himself in the spotlight both in and out of the Octagon. Even after his first professional loss earlier this year, the former NCAA wrestling champion is again scheduled to compete on the UFC 322 main card.
For fans and other fighters, this is somewhat questionable.
Bo Nickal Returns to the Spotlight at UFC 322
Bo Nickal (7-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) meets Rodolfo Vieira (11-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) at New York's Madison Square Garden. According to MMA Junkie, the bout appears on the UFC 322 pay-per-view main card, Nickal's sixth straight main card appearance since joining the promotion.
Nickal's most recent bout was disappointing after a Round 2 TKO loss to Reinier de Ridder at UFC on ESPN 67 in May. An automatic loss could mean getting sidelined, but the UFC had other plans to keep him in the spotlight again.
Nickal posted on social media to share his response:
"Main card UFC 322. Maybe I have 100's of thousands of grassroots American wrestling fans or maybe it's just rage bait. Either way I can't wait to fight :)"
Darren Till Questions Nickal's Main Card Status
Not everyone agrees with the UFC's move. British fighter Darren Till, known for sharing his own views, expressed annoyance at Nickal's repeated main card appearances. He said that more seasoned fighters are more deserving than Nickal.
How is Bo Nickal getting further up on the main card slots than the likes of Leon Edward's n that? Make it make sense. Guy hasn't earned his stripes yet.
— DT (@darrentill2) October 27, 2025
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His statement quickly sparked backlash on social media, with some conceding that Nickal's emergence comes across as too early. In contrast, others feel that his level of popularity and wrestling background merit the attention.
Why Bo Nickal Still Commands Main Card Attention?
Despite his inexperience, Bo Nickal's massive fan base and marketable wrestling background make him a valuable asset for the UFC. As a three-time NCAA Division I champion, his crossover appeal draws wrestling fans into MMA, helping the promotion tap into a loyal and passionate audience.
Additionally, Nickal's outspoken personality and enthusiasm for engaging online have established him as a divisive but intriguing character, qualities the UFC tends to reward with top billing. His bouts are considered must-see spectacles, whether viewers watch to observe him conquer or falter.
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