Colby Covington and Luke Rockhold criticized Bo Nickal at a pre-fight press conference, dismissing his MMA achievements and challenging his presence in the sport.
Colby Covington and Luke Rockhold are set to clash at RAF 5. But that doesn’t stop them from teaming up for some verbal sparring.
At a pre-fight press conference in Sunrise, Fla., the former UFC champs turned their attention to middleweight contender Bo Nickal. Nickal, also on the card, faces Yoel Romero in the co-main event.
His presence? Not exactly welcomed.
“Listen, it’s the type of bozos like this that just kill the sport of wrestling,” Covington remarked. “We need stars. We need people that are willing to be vocal and call their shots.”
When Nickal challenged Covington, the welterweight veteran was quick to dismiss him. He pointed out Nickal’s loss to Reinier de Ridder, a blemish on his young career.
“No, that’d be too easy, bro, you’re a bum,” Covington retorted. “You got broken by a Dutch kickboxer. You’re a bum, dude. You’re not even the main event, there’s a reason.”
Despite a recent head kick knockout of Rodolfo Vieira at UFC 322, Nickal’s pre-MMA success earned him a spot on the RAF roster. His time at Penn State saw him win three national titles.
Rockhold chimed in, cautioning Nickal against disrespecting seasoned fighters. “You should make the top 10 before you start talking about a sport that built another sport,” he advised.
Rockhold didn’t hold back, suggesting a modified rules match with Nickal. “I will put you to sleep,” he threatened.
“How many world championships have I won?” Rockhold asked. “What have you even done on a world stage? Absolutely nothing. You’re a college bum. Shut up.”
And with that, the stage was set for an explosive event.