Bo Nickal, after suffering his first MMA defeat against Reinier de Ridder due to a second-round knockout, expressed determination to learn from the setback and return stronger, with support from his gym, American Top Team.
Bo Nickal rarely loses, but when he does, he comes back stronger. After his recent fight at UFC Des Moines, he broke his silence. A knockout loss to Reinier de Ridder left him with a lot to think about.
De Ridder’s knee strike ended the fight in the second round. Not the result Nickal wanted, but he’s determined to return. “Grateful for the highs and lows,” he posted on Instagram. “I’ll be back.”
American Top Team, his gym, also chimed in. They highlighted his rapid rise in the sport. “Less than four years in, and already on the biggest stage,” they noted. Setbacks are part of the journey. Learn, grow, and come back stronger.
Before this, Nickal was undefeated with a 7-0 record. Most wins were by knockout or submission. His fight against Paul Craig was the only one that went to a decision.
But de Ridder’s experience showed. He controlled Nickal in the clinch and on the ground. Despite Nickal’s wrestling skills, striking made the difference.
De Ridder targeted the body, landing knee strikes. One hit the mark, and Nickal went down. Now 7-1, he’s focused on learning from this. Hopes are high for a stronger comeback.