Bo Nickal defeats Jacob Cardens , 6-4 to claim Light Heavyweight World Title

Bo Nickal defeats Jacob Cardenas in a close battle at RAF01, using a slick late match step-over to lock up the win. Nickal made it clear he’s not done with wrestling and plans to defend the belt—while chasing UFC gold next.

Breakdown: R1: 3-0 Nickal | R2: 1-1 | R3: 3-2 Cardenas

Heading into RAF01, some fans wondered if Bo Nickal still had it. With his full focus on climbing the UFC ranks, there was buzz that maybe the wrestling world had passed him by. Jacob Cardenas was viewed as a serious threat—young, active and rising fast.

But when the final whistle blew in Cleveland, Bo Nickal left with the win and the belt—thanks to one of the slickest sequences of the night.

A Fight to the Finish

This match was close from start to finish. Cardenas brought intensity and held strong position early. He wasn’t overwhelmed by the moment and gave Nickal a real challenge. As the second period ticked down, the match was still in reach.

Then came the turn.

Cardenas locked up a gut wrench and looked ready to score. But Nickal baited it—letting Cardenas commit before hitting a slick hip shift, stepping over and planting him straight to his back. Just like that, the match flipped. The crowd erupted. And Nickal locked in the win from top position.

It was a reminder of what separates Bo from most: his feel, his timing and his ability to change a match in an instant.

Bo’s Not Done

After the match, Chael Sonnen stepped in to ask the question everyone had in mind: Was this a one-and-done? Or is Bo really back in the mix?

Nickal didn’t hesitate.

“It felt good to be back,” he said. “Back to my roots. Wrestling made me who I am. I’m here to stay. I want to keep this belt—and next, I’m coming for the UFC belt too.”

The message was clear. Nickal isn’t leaving wrestling behind—he’s doubling down. And whoever wants a shot at the belt now has a serious problem standing in their way.

Respect for Cardenas

Cardenas didn’t leave empty-handed. He pushed one of the sport’s most gifted athletes to the brink. His positioning, pace and poise were strong throughout. And if not for that one step-over, he might’ve pulled the upset.

Cardenas showed he’s ready for top-tier competition and proved he can wrestle with the best in the world. His future remains bright—and his name is one fans will be hearing a lot more moving forward.