Thankful for the Peaks and Valleys

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) rising star , Bo Nickal , experienced his first professional defeat against Reinier de Ridder in the second main event of UFC Des Moines last night (Sat., May 3, 2025) as he got with a devastating knee to the liver that devastated him at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa watch highlights ).

Today (Sunday, May 4, 2025), just under 24 hours following his defeat, Nickal posted a brief statement on Instagram.

Thankful for both the peaks and valleys," Nickal penned. "I'll return.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DJPth5wxSdb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

And back he’ll come. Former UFC two-division champion and fellow wrestling standout Henry Cejudo has no doubt about Nickal’s resilience.

The athlete from Penn State University (PSU), who has won the NCAA Division I championship three times, had his seven-bout winning streak ended. having finished six opponents , including Cody Brundage , Val Woodburn , and Jamie Pickett .

Nickal’s gym, the iconic American Top Team, issued a statement supporting their fighter after the knockout loss.

In less than four years since entering the sport, he's already reached the largest platform. Challenges are an integral part of this path. Embrace them, learn from them, and return even more resilient. Bo Nickal will indeed make his comeback.

Fingers crossed, Nickal will return to competition swiftly to gain additional ring time and experience...and he could face numerous opponents. yelling out his name to challenge him.

For complete UFC Des Moines results, coverage and highlights click HERE .