UFC 322: Nickal vs. Vieira delivers one of the most intriguing grappling matchups in recent memory. Rising American wrestling standout Bo Nickal meets Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Rodolfo Vieira in a clash that could determine the most dangerous submission threat at middleweight. Both fighters are elite finishers with world-class ground credentials, setting the stage for a high-stakes technical battle.
Bo Nickal
Bo Nickal (7-1) is a three-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion whose transition into MMA has been fast and dominant. Nickal uses explosive takedowns, crushing top control, and rapidly improving submission skills to overwhelm opponents. He has already produced finishes by arm-triangle choke, rear-naked choke, TKO, and a decision win that displayed his growing composure. His only loss came against fellow grappling specialist Reinier de Ridder, but Nickal quickly rebounded with strong performances over Paul Craig and Cody Brundage. Nickal enters every fight with elite athleticism, fight IQ, and the ability to dictate where the action takes place.
Bo Nickal - Last 5 Fights:
* Loss vs. Reinier de Ridder - TKO (Knee to the Body), UFC on ESPN 67, May 3, 2025
* Win vs. Paul Craig - Decision (Unanimous), UFC 309, Nov 16, 2024
* Win vs. Cody Brundage - Submission (Rear-Naked Choke), UFC 300, Apr 13, 2024
* Win vs. Val Woodburn - TKO (Punches), UFC 290, Jul 8, 2023
* Win vs. Jamie Pickett - Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke), UFC 285, Mar 4, 2023
Keys: Nickal’s clearest path is to use his superior wrestling to control exchanges, apply steady top pressure, and build damage into submission threats. If he stays disciplined in scrambles and avoids giving Vieira unnecessary space, his athletic edge and pace become major advantages.
Rodolfo Vieira
Rodolfo Vieira (11-3) is considered one of the greatest Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitors ever to enter MMA. A multi-time BJJ world champion and ADCC gold medalist, Vieira’s submission arsenal is elite. He is at his best when he closes distance, scores a takedown, and begins working through guard with pressure, passing, and finishing instincts matched by very few in the sport. Nine of his eleven wins have come by submission. Over the past two years, Vieira has improved his endurance and striking, earning victories over Armen Petrosyan, Cody Brundage, and most recently a decision win over Tresean Gore.
Rodolfo Vieira - Last 5 Fights:
* Win vs. Tresean Gore - Decision (Unanimous), UFC on ESPN: Taira vs. Park, Aug 2, 2025 (Catchweight)
* Loss vs. Andre Petroski - Decision (Unanimous), UFC Fight Night 251, Feb 15, 2025
* Win vs. Armen Petrosyan - Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke), UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs. Pyfer, Feb 10, 2024
* Win vs. Cody Brundage - Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke), UFC on ESPN: Song vs. Simon, Apr 29, 2023
* Loss vs. Chris Curtis - Decision (Unanimous), UFC on ESPN 38, Jun 25, 2022
Keys: Vieira’s biggest opportunity comes from forcing Nickal into extended grappling sequences. If he can disrupt Nickal’s rhythm, find transitions during scrambles, or secure top control, his submission finishing ability can change the fight instantly.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup showcases high-level wrestling against world-class jiu-jitsu. Nickal will likely land the first takedown, but once the fight hits the canvas, the danger shifts. Vieira is comfortable off his back and can attack with sweeps, arm locks, and chokes from multiple angles. Nickal’s success hinges on maintaining heavy pressure without overextending, while Vieira will look for any opening to create a scramble or latch onto a limb or neck. On the feet, Nickal’s speed and explosiveness give him the advantage, though Vieira’s striking has steadily improved.
Prediction
Expect a tactical ground battle early. Nickal’s pace, conditioning, and wrestling transitions should allow him to stay ahead in the scramble-heavy moments while avoiding reckless risks. Vieira will have threats throughout, but Nickal’s control and activity are likely to earn him cleaner rounds and safer positions. Over three rounds, Nickal’s consistency and discipline should determine the outcome.
Prediction: Bo Nickal def. Rodolfo Vieira via Decision (Unanimous)
A win elevates Nickal into true contender status, while a Vieira upset would reignite his momentum as one of the sport’s most feared submission artists.