Play-by-play commentator Jon Anik sees no issue with Bo Nickal gracing the main card of UFC 300, embracing the electrifying aura surrounding certain fighters. Set to unfold on April 13 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, UFC 300 promises a lineup brimming with excitement, spanning from the initial preliminaries to the pivotal main bouts.
Headlining the spectacle is the clash between light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and Jamahal Hill, who, despite never suffering a defeat for the title, relinquished it due to an unfortunate injury. The event also boasts women’s strawweight champion Zhang Weili defending her throne against Yan Xiaonan, alongside the highly anticipated matchup between Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway for the symbolic BMF Championship, and Charles Oliveira facing off against Arman Tsarukyan.
While the card has received ample praise, one bout, Nickal versus Cody Brundage, has encountered its share of criticism. However, Anik is quick to defend the inclusion of Nickal on the main card, citing the unique allure and anticipation surrounding certain fighters like Khamzat Chimaev, Raul Rosas Jr., and Nickal himself.
In an appearance on MMAJunkie Radio, Anik elaborated on his stance, emphasizing the distinctive energy these fighters bring to the octagon. “There’s just a different electricity when it comes to some of these guys,” Anik remarked. “You parlay their fight style with the expectation and the pressure, and the fan intrigue, I just think Bo Nickal checks a lot of boxes.”
Acknowledging the strategic significance of the main card slot, Anik highlighted the thrill of witnessing the opening bout alongside viewers worldwide. For Anik and the commentary team, it’s a pivotal moment to set the tone for the evening’s excitement, making it a prime position on the card.