UFC Des Moines is heating up, and so is the tension — especially when rising middleweight sensation Bo Nickal took center stage at media day. The decorated wrestling standout turned undefeated UFC prospect made headlines yet again, but this time it wasn’t just for his confident tone — it was for the response he provoked from his division.

Bo Nickal opens up about upcoming bout against Reinier De Ridder, says he "asked" for it: "Natural step for me"

As Bo Nickal confidently addressed the media, outlining his goals to “dominate the division” and “finish everyone put in front of him,” a wave of criticism and challenges followed. One bold statement in particular stood out:

Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal Confirmed For UFC Des Moines On May 3

“I don’t think anyone in this division can stop me — I’m on another level.”

That declaration didn’t sit well with several fighters, including a few veterans and submission specialists. One rival, speaking off-camera, fired back:

“Time for Bo to get humbled. Time for him to get choked.”

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Is Bo Nickal the Real Deal — Or Too Much Hype?

With a perfect record and dominant grappling performances, Bo Nickal has lived up to the hype so far — but questions remain. Critics argue that he hasn’t yet faced a top-tier opponent and that his wrestling-centric style will be tested the moment he steps into deeper waters.

UFC Des Moines could be that moment.

UFC Des Moines's Reinier de Ridder on Bo Nickal: "Time to Get Choked"

Nickal’s upcoming fight is expected to be his toughest challenge yet — against an experienced striker with proven submission skills. While Bo has showcased explosive takedowns and top control, the MMA world is wondering:
Can he survive off his back? Can he handle being the hunted?

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Media Day Vibes: Calm Outside, Fire Inside

Despite the brewing tension, Nickal stayed calm and collected at media day. He didn’t directly respond to the “get choked” jab but smiled when told about it. His only comment:

Reinier de Ridder Dares Bo Nickal To Wrestle In Their UFC Des Moines Clash

“Talk is cheap. Let’s see who’s still standing after Saturday night.”

That quiet confidence has been Bo’s trademark — but in a sport like MMA, it only takes one mistake for things to unravel fast.

 

Saturday Night: Statement or Setback?

With all eyes on Des Moines, Bo Nickal has a chance to silence doubters and cement his place as the future of the middleweight division. But with the target now firmly on his back, the question remains:

Is it Bo time — or time for Bo to get choked?