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In a world where mixed martial arts (MMA) showcases a blend of skills and talents, it is not unusual to see fighters take jabs at one another's proficiencies. Bo Nickal, a standout in the MMA community and a multiple NCAA Division-I wrestling champion, is no exception.
Recently, Nickal made it abundantly clear that he's not sold on Khamzat Chimaev's wrestling skills, despite the latter's impressive MMA record.
Nickal's Bold Take on Chimaev
Nickal’s skepticism is evident. “It’s trash,” he confidently declared in a chat with Clash of Combat. “I wouldn’t even say mid-(level)”.
For someone who has faced and conquered opponents on the wrestling mat, Nickal's verdict might be more than just bravado. He has, on various occasions, thrown down the gauntlet to Chimaev, suggesting a duel in the cage is merely a matter of time.
Climbing the ranks with an undefeated record (5-0, 2-0 UFC), Nickal recently wowed fans with a quick 38-second knockout win over Val Woodburn at UFC 290. He further elaborated on his views on the sport, stating, “It’s just so funny, you go into a world of MMA where there’s no other sport where people know less and think they know more”.
Chimaev's Upcoming Challenge
With Chimaev (12-0, 6-0 UFC) preparing to step into the Octagon against former title challenger Paulo Costa (14-2, 6-2 UFC) at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena, the MMA community is abuzz with speculation.
The match is slated for October 21. Though Nickal backs Chimaev to emerge victorious, he is keen to see how the wrestler handles the size advantage of Costa. Nickal elucidated, “I think it’s going to be a good fight.
It’s definitely a different ball game when you go from 170 to 185. We’re talking about a different size human being”. Having observed Chimaev cut weight for the welterweight division multiple times, Nickal is confident in his own abilities against him.
“He’s obviously a big ’70, but it’s a different size human, and to me, anybody who can make 170, none of those dudes are going to be competitive with me. Costa is a different story; I’m going to watch the fight, so we’ll see how he does”.
