UFC Prospect Bo Nickal Leaks Topuria-Volkanovski Rematch for UFC 314

MIAMI, Fla. — UFC middleweight prospect Bo Nickal has seemingly revealed a major upcoming fight, stating that UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria will defend his title against Alexander Volkanovski in a rematch at UFC 314. The event is reportedly scheduled for April 12, with Miami as the likely host city.

Nickal, a multi-time NCAA wrestling champion, made the announcement during a recent podcast episode. “No, it’s official. I know that for a fact,” Nickal said. “I don’t know that it was announced for a fact, but I know it’s happening. I’m announcing it.” Nickal shares the same management company as Topuria, lending credibility to his claim.

The rematch comes after Topuria’s stunning second-round knockout of Volkanovski in February 2024, which earned him the featherweight title. Volkanovski, a former champion, was promised an immediate rematch following the loss. Topuria successfully defended his title in October 2024, further solidifying his status as one of the UFC’s top stars.

UFC 314 is shaping up to be a stacked card, with several high-profile fights already confirmed. Gilbert Burns is set to face rising prospect Michael Morales, while Yan Xiaonan will clash with Virna Jandiroba. Dominick Reyes and Nikita Krylov are also scheduled to compete. The event could feature up to eight ranked fighters on the main card, though the co-main event remains unannounced.

Nickal, who last fought in November 2024, expressed his desire to compete on the UFC 314 card. “I might fight on that card. That’s the card I’m trying to fight on; April in Miami,” he said. Nickal, who trains at American Top Team in Florida, is eyeing a matchup against a ranked opponent, with potential candidates including Michel Pereira, Jack Hermansson, or Paulo Costa.

Despite the excitement surrounding the Topuria-Volkanovski rematch, Nickal admitted he isn’t particularly enthusiastic about the fight. “I don’t see a path to victory for [Volkanovski] really,” he said. “Ilia knocked him out clean. Bad. I love Volk, he’s great, but I don’t know.” Nickal suggested he would prefer to see Topuria move up to lightweight to challenge Islam Makhachev for the title.

UFC officials have yet to confirm the main event for UFC 314, but Nickal’s revelation has sparked widespread speculation. The event is expected to draw significant attention, with Miami serving as a fitting backdrop for one of the year’s most anticipated fight cards.