Bo Nickal is handling his initial defeat in the UFC calmly and constructively.
Last weekend, Nickal experienced the first loss of his mixed martial arts career, being stopped by Reiner de Ridder during the co-main event in Des Moines. Considering the significant anticipation surrounding Nickal as a promising newcomer, this defeat was surprising. However, Nickal views it as a beneficial turning point for his future in the sport.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Nickal commented, “It`s been intense, leading to much self-reflection. Right after the bout, naturally, I felt deep disappointment and self-frustration. I`m truly thankful for the strong foundation of values instilled in me. I don`t believe this changes my overall goals or who I am.”
He added, “It`s tough having to go through it because I despise losing. But even now, having previously experienced numerous losses that served as significant turning points in my life and career, I`m already quite grateful for this one. I see it purely as a chance to learn and gain experience, which I believe will only help me develop, improve, and become better.”
Although many considered the loss an upset, Nickal stated he recognized de Ridder as a significant threat and insisted he prepared diligently without underestimating “The Dutch Knight.” Nickal explained that the reality was his lack of necessary experience for a fight at this caliber.
“I felt extremely confident heading into the match,” Nickal remarked. “In my view beforehand, I felt I had completed all necessary steps to prepare for victory. I felt excellent. However, reflecting now, having gone through it, I realize I wasn`t as ready as I believed. There were many areas I could have improved upon beforehand, many things I could have prioritized or approached differently.”
He continued, “It`s challenging to anticipate everything or predict exactly what will unfold in a fight when you don`t have years of accumulated experience, countless repetitions, and the feel for various fighting styles. Looking back at the fight, some of de Ridder`s key strengths that became prominent were aspects I simply wasn`t prepared to handle.”
As a three-time NCAA Division I national wrestling champion (with one runner-up finish), Nickal was hailed as one of the most promising newcomers in mixed martial arts in recent memory when he transitioned in 2021. Nickal himself fueled this excitement, speaking boldly about his ambitions and capabilities. Such overt confidence sometimes annoys others, and following his loss, many fans and fellow competitors seemed to relish the moment, framing it as Nickal receiving a dose of “humble pie.” Despite this reaction, Nickal states he wouldn`t alter his approach.
“I don`t regret anything at all,” Nickal asserted. “I have complete faith in myself and will always back myself. I don`t believe a win or a loss dictates who I am. I`ve won frequently and lost rarely, and I don`t let either define me. My self-belief is unwavering, regardless of the outcome. People are free to say what they like, and the result is what it is, but I will continue to pursue my goals every single morning and give my all daily.”
He concluded, “My confidence in my abilities remains absolute, and this defeat serves only to intensify my motivation.”
Regarding his next steps, Nickal doesn`t have concrete plans but is eager to return to competition quickly to move past this loss.
Nickal mentioned, “I discussed it with Coach Mike [Brown] on the return trip, saying, `I want to fight as soon as possible. Let`s get back in there.` However, I`ll consult with the coaching staff to determine the best course of action. I need to ensure I`m fully recovered and ready to undertake a proper training camp, but we`ll see. I`d ideally like to compete a couple more times this year, so returning promptly would be beneficial for me.”
