Bo Nickal silenced critics in emphatic style at Madison Square Garden, ending Rodolfo Vieira’s night with a devastating head kick on the UFC 322 prelims. The win was crucial for the American standout, marking his return to form after suffering the first loss of his MMA career earlier this year.
Following the victory, Nickal expressed his desire for a quick turnaround, but he’s also considering a major career decision: whether to wait for a potential place on the historic UFC event planned at the White House in June 2026.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Nickal said he is torn between staying active or preserving his chances of competing on the high-profile card.
“I would love to get back in there quickly,” he said. “Right now, I’m just deciding if I wanna wait till June to get on the White House card or get a fight in between now and then. Some thinking and some prayer to decide what’s best.”
Meanwhile, Jon Jones has been lobbying heavily for a spot on the same card, but Dana White remains unwilling to commit. White rejected Jones’ request for a return earlier this year and says the former champion’s track record makes him hesitant.
“I haven’t said yes or no to anybody yet,” White said on the Flagrant podcast. “But I can’t put Jon Jones in a position where… I had a deal with him to fight Tom Aspinall. We had a deal, and he said, ‘I’m not going to do it.’ I can’t be in that position. I need somebody who can be reliable.”
While Nickal decides his next move, the prospect of competing at the White House continues to loom large — and could shape his upcoming fight schedule.
