Bo Nickal Comments on Islam Makhachev’s Wrestling Skills Before UFC 302

UFC middleweight star Bo Nickal has shared his thoughts on Islam Makhachev’s wrestling skills ahead of Makhachev’s upcoming fight. Makhachev is scheduled to defend his UFC lightweight title against Dustin Poirier in the main event of UFC 302 in Newark.

After back-to-back victories over Alexander Volkanovski in 2023, Makhachev is known for his strong wrestling and significantly improved striking, attributes that stem from his training under UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Nickal, a former NCAA Division I wrestling national champion, doesn’t hold Makhachev’s wrestling in the highest regard compared to other top UFC wrestlers. On a recent episode of his podcast, Nickals and Dimes, Nickal was asked to evaluate Makhachev’s wrestling. He admitted that while Makhachev is skilled, his wrestling doesn’t reach the level of Khabib’s, whom Nickal considers superior in wrestling techniques.

According to Nickal, Makhachev’s wrestling is good but not world-class, and he believes Makhachev’s striking might be slightly better than Khabib’s. Nickal’s candid assessments are a hallmark of his commentary, and he has previously been critical of other top fighters’ wrestling abilities, including Khamzat Chimaev, in anticipation of potential future matchups.

Makhachev, who is aiming for his 14th consecutive victory and third title defense, has a chance to prove his critics wrong, including Nickal. While Nickal respects Makhachev’s overall skill set, he remains unconvinced about the elite status of Makhachev’s wrestling. This fight will be an opportunity for Makhachev to demonstrate his capabilities and potentially change opinions about his wrestling prowess in the UFC.