Bo Nickal isn’t keen on rescheduling his fight with Yoel Romero after Romero missed weight for their match at RAF 5. Originally, this bout was highly anticipated, but after Romero weighed in at 212 pounds—well over the 205-pound limit—Nickal decided to pull out. Romero then shifted gears, facing NCAA champion Stephen Buchanan instead.
Nickal expressed his frustration about Romero’s weight issue, stating, “Wrestling is about competing, and making weight is part of that. When you show up seven pounds over, it disrespects the sport.” He emphasized that many fans may not understand the commitment it takes to make weight, saying, “Every wrestler who has made weight knows what’s involved. I was ready, but my opponent wasn’t.”
This match has faced multiple setbacks; Nickal initially pulled out of their fight scheduled for RAF 4. Despite hopes for a rematch at RAF 5, Nickal’s dissatisfaction remains. He noted, “To be honest, I think he’s more of a heavyweight. He’s trying to come down from over 230 pounds. I naturally weigh 205. Unless Romero can get down to weight, I have my sights set on other fighters.”
With Romero no longer in his plans, Nickal shifted focus to the headliners of RAF 5: Colby Covington and former UFC champion Luke Rockhold. Covington has a solid wrestling background as a former All-American, while Rockhold is well-known for his fight titles. However, Nickal feels it’s unfair they are headlining instead of accomplished wrestlers like Kadi Magomedov and Kyle Dake.
He expressed strong opinions, saying, “It’s a shame they’re the main event. Dake and Magomedov are world-class competitors who deserve recognition. The guys in the main event don’t take the sport seriously.” Nickal’s passion for wrestling shines through as he adds, “I’d love to face either of those guys and show them how real wrestling is done.”
In the world of wrestling and mixed martial arts, the weight issue is more than just numbers on a scale; it can affect careers and reputations. According to a recent survey by a sports analytics firm, 73% of MMA fighters believe making weight is one of the toughest parts of their job. This pressure underscores the importance of preparation and discipline in the sport.
Nickal’s intense dedication highlights a broader issue in the fight world: the respect and standards we set for athletes. As fans and participants, understanding this commitment can bring a new appreciation for the sport.
Source link
Latest News,RAF Wrestling,RAF Wrestling News,UFC,UFC News
