In the post-fight press conference following UFC 309, Dana White shared insights from President-elect Trump regarding the notable size difference between fighters Bo Nickal and Paul Craig. Nickal secured a unanimous decision victory against Craig in a middleweight showdown at Madison Square Garden. Despite his win, Nickal faced some negativity from fans, who expressed their discontent through boos and chants of “overrated.” This victory improved Nickal’s professional MMA record to 7-0, with a perfect 6-0 since joining White’s Contender Series in 2022.
White highlighted a conversation he had with Trump, who seemed astonished by the size disparity at the same weight class. “Did you see the size of Craig? That guy’s a monster,” Trump reportedly remarked. While Nickal dominated the fight, White emphasized that there is still work to be done for the rising star, who harbors ambitions to advance quickly in his career.
Post-fight, Nickal addressed the audience’s expectations, acknowledging that while fans are eager for quick finishes, most of his opponents are highly trained athletes. He expressed pride in his performance, noting the challenges that come with facing experienced fighters in the octagon.
This matchup demonstrates Nickal’s ongoing development as a fighter, and while he faced external pressures and differing reactions from the crowd, his victory illustrates his effectiveness in the ring. As he continues to refine his skills, fans can look forward to seeing how he evolves in future bouts, potentially leading to more thrilling performances down the line.
In the end, Nickal’s dedication to improvement and his ability to compete at a high level indicate a bright future in MMA, bringing excitement for what’s next in his burgeoning career.