Midnight Mania Highlights! Nickal Dominates … But No UFC Contract

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

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Just moments ago, one of the most talented wrestlers to ever transition to MMA mad…


Dana White’s Contender Series: Nickal v Borrego
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Bringing you the weird and wild from the world of MMA each and every weeknight!

Welcome to Midnight Mania!

Just moments ago, one of the most talented wrestlers to ever transition to MMA made his way to the “Contenders Series” cage. Bo Nickal, a longtime training partner of Jorge Masvidal at American Top Team, recently committed fully to chasing MMA, and he’s quickly earned an opportunity to become a UFC fighter on the strength of his reputation and wrestling accolades.

His opponent, Zachary Borrego, walked to the cage as a +1400 underdog.

It took less than five seconds for Nickal to score his first double leg takedown. He nearly wrapped up a guillotine choke moments later, instead snapping down the head and gaining back mount. Nickal fully committed to a rear naked choke that was right across the jaw, securing his second professional win in almost exactly a minute.

Check out the full highlights below:

This was exactly the type of performance most expected. Nickal’s wrestling credentials and athleticism make him a nightmare match up for anyone without similar skills or at least a ton of MMA experience.

Most thought that this type of victory would earn Nickal a UFC contract. Though three of his peers from the evening did score such an opportunity, Nickal was instead offered a chance to fight again on “Contenders Series” in order to lock down a spot on the roster.

Bad decision?

For the complete Contenders Series results and play-by-play, click HERE!

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Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.