Bo Nickal and Jamie Pickett are set to face each other on UFC 285. Both fighters have impressive records and are known for their tenacity inside the octagon. However, all eyes will be on Bo Nickal, the former Penn State wrestling standout who has quickly risen up the MMA ranks who will be making his main card debut in just 4 fights.
Nickal was a three-time NCAA wrestling champion during his time at Penn State, where he compiled an incredible record of 120-3. His success on the collegiate wrestling mat earned him numerous accolades, including the 2019 Hodge Trophy, which is awarded to the most outstanding wrestler in college wrestling. Nickal's dominant performance on the wrestling mat led many to believe that he would excel in MMA, and so far, he has not disappointed. Nickal made his professional MMA debut in 2020 and has since racked up an undefeated record of 3-0 all by way of finish. Nickal's transition from wrestling to MMA has been almost seamless, and he is quickly becoming one of the most promising prospects in the sport.
Bo Nickal's strengths lie in his wrestling background. He is an elite wrestler who dominated the college wrestling circuit and has seamlessly transitioned those skills to MMA. His grappling ability is top-notch, and he is known for his powerful takedowns, excellent control on the ground, and submission skills. Additionally, Nickal so far has shown good striking power and has shown good striking technique. His biggest weakness, however, could be his lack of experience in MMA. Nickal is still a relative newcomer to the sport, and facing an experienced opponent like Pickett could present challenges.
Pickett is a seasoned MMA veteran with a record of 13-8. Jamie Pickett's strength is his striking ability. He is a good striker with good power and technique. He is also a well-rounded fighter who has shown an ability to finish fights both on the feet and on the ground. However, Pickett's weakness lies in his grappling defense. He has struggled in the past against wrestlers and grapplers who can take him down and control him on the ground. If Nickal can get Pickett to the ground, he will have a significant advantage in the fight.
Bo Nickal is the heavy favorite in this fight and for good reason. Nickal is likely gonna control this fight early with his grappling leaving Jamie Pickett helpless. With the current odds it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to back Nickal via moneyline and Nickal can realistically end this fight however and whenever he likes. On the other hand Pickett is a massive underdog here with very few ways to win which is where we will be leaning. Bo Nickal is likely gonna try to get off to a hot start but if Pickett can defend the takedown as he has a 65% takedown defense, he put out Nickal's fire and swing the momentum in his favor early taking advantgae of Bo Nickal's inexperience an create a mental lapse in his defense.
