UFC 322 Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira: Preview and Prediction

A high-level grappler’s dream matchup is set for UFC 322 as Bo Nickal faces Rodolfo Vieira in a three-round middleweight showdown. This fight promises an elite clash of wrestling versus Brazilian jiu-jitsu on November 16, 2025, inside Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Tale of the Tape

Attribute	Bo Nickal	Rodolfo Vieira
Record	7–1–0	11–3–0
Height	1.85 m	1.83 m
Reach	1.92 m	1.88 m
Style	NCAA Elite Wrestling / Power Grappling	World-Class BJJ / Submission Specialist

Setting the Stage

Bo Nickal remains one of the most talked-about prospects in UFC history. With a legendary collegiate wrestling background and rapid MMA development, Nickal burst onto the scene with dominant finishes. His combination of chain wrestling, athletic explosiveness, and emerging striking has made him a fast riser in the middleweight division. After suffering the first loss of his career, Nickal rebounded strongly and now seeks to rebuild his momentum against a submission artist of the highest calibre.

SHOP: Kickboxing Gear

Rodolfo Vieira is a name synonymous with world-class jiu-jitsu. A multiple-time BJJ world champion, Vieira has steadily adapted to MMA, rounding out his striking and wrestling to support his lethal ground game. With eleven wins—nine by submission—Vieira’s finishing ability is unquestioned, especially if he can drag opponents into grappling exchanges on his terms.

Key Storylines

This matchup is all about which grappling discipline dictates the action. Nickal’s wrestling gives him superb control of where the fight takes place, but shooting carelessly on Vieira is dangerous. Vieira has the kind of guard and top-control setups that can punish even elite wrestlers if they make positional mistakes.

On the feet, Nickal has shown faster improvement and greater confidence, using his reach and power to complement his wrestling threat. Vieira’s striking has improved, but he still relies heavily on grappling opportunities to find pathways to victory.

Cardio is another major factor. Nickal thrives in high-pace scrambling, while Vieira has historically struggled in prolonged fights if he cannot secure early control or submissions.

Prediction

Expect Nickal to keep the fight standing early while testing Vieira’s reactions and limiting risky ground entries. If the fight does go to the mat, Nickal’s top pressure and positional awareness should allow him to stay safe and score meaningful control time without giving Vieira openings.

Nickal’s athletic edge, reach advantage, and evolving striking give him the tools to stay in command over three rounds.

Prediction: Bo Nickal wins via unanimous decision.