Here’s a bold statement: the UFC’s White House card is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the year, but it’s also sparking some of the fiercest rivalries in the sport. And this is the part most people miss: Bo Nickal is calling out Colby Covington for what he sees as a blatant dodge, and it’s turning heads across the MMA world. But here’s where it gets controversial—is Covington really avoiding Nickal, or is he just playing the strategic game of a seasoned fighter? Let’s dive in.
Bo Nickal, the decorated collegiate wrestler turned MMA prospect, is making waves as he pushes for a spot on the highly anticipated UFC card at the White House this June. With big names like Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria vying for the main event, Nickal seems poised to secure a spot on the undercard. But who does he want to face? None other than Colby Covington, following their heated exchange at the Real American Freestyle press conference in January. Nickal’s message to Covington? ‘Man up and take your beating.’
But here’s the twist: Instead of stepping up to face Nickal, Covington has been eyeing a fight with Paddy Pimblett, a lightweight contender. This move has raised eyebrows, with Nickal accusing Covington of ducking their potential matchup. ‘Colby talks trash about me, then says he wants to move up to 185 pounds,’ Nickal wrote on social media. ‘I say okay, let’s fight at the White House. Now he’s trying to run away. What a wimp.’
This isn’t just about personal grudges—it’s about the strategic choices fighters make in their careers. Covington, a former interim welterweight champion, hasn’t fought since December 2024 and is aiming for the biggest fight of his career at the White House. But is targeting Pimblett a smarter move than facing Nickal? And this is the part most people miss: While Covington may be past his prime, with only one win since 2020, a fight with him would still be a significant step up for Nickal, who suffered his first MMA loss just last year after being pushed too quickly by the UFC.
Controversial question: Is Covington dodging a tougher fight, or is he simply playing the long game? And for Nickal, is calling out Covington a bold move or a risky one that could lead to another setback? Let’s not forget, Nickal’s TKO loss to Reinier de Ridder in 2025 was a wake-up call, with his coach admitting the UFC rushed his rise. Could a clash with Covington repeat history?
As the MMA world buzzes with speculation, one thing’s clear: this rivalry is far from over. What do you think? Is Covington ducking Nickal, or is he making a smart career choice? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take!
LATEST NEWS: Mirko Cro Cop recently slammed weight cutting as ‘MMA’s biggest scam’ after Conor McGregor’s double-title win. And if you’re curious about the state of the UFC heavyweight division, check out our analysis on why it’s in turmoil amid Tom Aspinall’s absence. Don’t miss out—join our newsletter for the best Bloody Elbow content delivered straight to your inbox every week!
