UFC Fight Night Nickal vs Ridder Analysis and Prediction

The co-main event of UFC Fight Night on May 3, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, features a compelling middleweight clash between Reinier de Ridder and Bo Nickal. This matchup pits de Ridder’s submission expertise against Nickal’s elite wrestling pedigree.

Fighter Profiles

Reinier de Ridder (“The Dutch Knight”)

Record: 19–2
Age: 34
Height: 6’4″
Reach: 78″
Fighting Out Of: Breda, Netherlands
Team: Combat Brothers
UFC Record: 2–0

De Ridder, a former two-division ONE Championship titleholder, has made a strong impression since joining the UFC. He secured submission victories over Gerald Meerschaert and Kevin Holland, showcasing his grappling dominance. With 13 submission wins in his career, de Ridder is known for his ability to control opponents on the ground.

Bo Nickal

Record: 7–0
Age: 29
Height: 6’1″
Reach: 76″
Fighting Out Of: State College, Pennsylvania, USA
Team: American Top Team
UFC Record: 4–0

Nickal, a three-time NCAA Division I national wrestling champion, has transitioned seamlessly into MMA. His UFC tenure includes victories over Jamie Pickett, Val Woodburn, Cody Brundage, and Paul Craig. Notably, in his bout against Craig, Nickal opted to strike rather than utilize his wrestling, winning by unanimous decision.

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Stylistic Matchup

This bout presents a classic grappler vs. wrestler scenario. De Ridder’s submission skills are among the best in the division, while Nickal’s wrestling credentials are unparalleled. De Ridder has expressed a desire to engage Nickal in grappling exchanges, aiming to test the wrestler’s ground defense.

Nickal’s striking has shown improvement, but his primary strength remains his wrestling. If he chooses to engage on the ground, it will be intriguing to see how he handles de Ridder’s submission threats. Conversely, if Nickal opts to keep the fight standing, it could neutralize de Ridder’s grappling advantage.

Prediction

The outcome hinges on where the fight takes place. If Nickal utilizes his wrestling to control de Ridder without engaging in prolonged grappling exchanges, he could edge out a decision. However, if the fight goes to the ground and de Ridder can implement his submission game, he has a strong chance of securing a finish. Prediction: Reinier de Ridder wins via submission in Round 2.