Bo Nickal

ANALYSIS
While wrestling is the primary strength of Nickal, and two of his five UFC fights have been won by way of submission, Craig represents the best pure grappler that the undefeated prospect has faced to date. That said, while Craig is miles ahead of Nickal in terms of MMA experience and big-name opponents, he also has lost four of his last fights and has been relegated to "gatekeeper" status. Nickal should be favored, and should he prove he's able to take care of business here, a ranked opponent could very well be on the horizon.

ANALYSIS
Nickal was visibly and vocally upset with his performance, which seems kind of harsh. Yes, Brundage extended him to the middle of Round 2, which is saying something since none of his first opponents lasted longer than 2:54, but he still dominated. Bo landed 3-of-6 takedown attempts, good for 7:25 worth of control time, a ridiculous number for a fight which lasted a shade over eight minutes. The only question at this point is how long the UFC waits to push him. It has been very cautious thus far, and while Nickal is 28 years of age, it's important to remember he still has just six pro fights under his belt. It might be another bout or two before the first real test comes.

ANALYSIS
Nickal was due for a step up in opponent after tearing through both DWCS opponents and winning each of his first two UFC appearances -- all four within the first round. He'll get a slightly better test in Brundage, who is 4-4 in the UFC and coming off back-to-back victories. Both men are known for their wrestling, and while Bo's takedown numbers are off the charts over a short sample size, Brundage respectably averages 2.69 takedowns per 15 minutes. Look for Nickal to enter as a heavy betting favorite despite the step up.

ANALYSIS
In all of Nickal's brief professional bouts prior to this one, he dominated with world-class grappling and submission skills. Seemingly intent on making a statement, Bo changed up the game plan and nearly decapitated Woodburn with a nuclear uppercut. Arguably the greatest prospect in the history of the sport, the UFC is in a tough spot with Nickal. He's 27 years of age, so he's not a kid, but how quickly can you push a guy with four pro bouts under his belt? That said, it's become quite clear Bo is going to destroy anything less than quality competition. This story continues to develop.

ANALYSIS
Nickal has found a replacement opponent for UFC 290 after Tresean Gore withdrew due to injury. He will now face off against Val Woodburn (7-0), who will make his UFC debut in Las Vegas.