Colby Covington criticized Bo Nickal for not accepting a match against Yoel Romero at RAF 5 due to weight issues and dismissed the idea of facing Nickal, whom he labeled a “quitter,” in future events.
Colby Covington made a triumphant return to wrestling at RAF 5, dominating Luke Rockhold. He’s eager to get back on the mats soon, but don’t expect a showdown with Bo Nickal just yet.
Covington didn’t hold back at the pre-event press conference, taking shots at Nickal. After his win, he criticized Nickal for refusing to face Yoel Romero when Romero missed weight by seven pounds.
RAF had to scramble, booking Romero against NCAA champ Stephen Buchanan. Meanwhile, Nickal was left on the sidelines, not competing.
Covington was vocal about Nickal’s decision. “Absolutely [he should have wrestled Yoel Romero],” he said. “You want to be the face of the organization? Be a company man.”
Covington shared his own experience, mentioning he faced opponents much larger than him. “Luke was 20 or 30 pounds bigger. I didn’t complain,” he added. He even recalled weighing in with ankle weights after a night at Mar-a-lago with Trump.
Nickal’s UFC journey began with promise as a three-time NCAA champ. However, a knockout loss to Reinier de Ridder in 2025 marked a setback.
Though Nickal rebounded with a head kick knockout over Rodolfo Vieira, Covington remained unimpressed. Nickal even suggested a fight with Covington at the UFC White House card in June, but Covington shut it down.
Covington dubbed Nickal “Bozo” for bailing on the RAF fight. He also apologized to Reinier de Ridder, clarifying his grappling skills. “Bo’s a quitter,” Covington declared.
Covington emphasized he wants dependable opponents. “Real American Freestyle is the future,” he stated. “And ‘Bozo’ Nickals is not that guy.”