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Bo Nickal recalls backstage altercation with Gable Steveson before UFC 331

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 10:19 PM

Last updated Oct 19, 2026

Bo Nickal recalls backstage altercation with Gable Steveson before UFC 331

Summary

Bo Nickal described a heated altercation with Gable Steveson prior to UFC 331, where Steveson allegedly threatened to knock him out. The confrontation occurred at an RAF event in August. This followed Steveson's upsetting loss to Sean Sharaf in just 12 seconds at UFC 331. Nickal expressed concern for Steveson amidst the scrutiny surrounding him, which included resurfaced allegations from 2019. Despite their past cordial relationship, tensions escalated, with Nickal recalling Steveson's claim that he would knock him out. Nickal is set for his first UFC main event in February against Joe Pyfer.

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By the Numbers

•Nickal and Steveson had a confrontation at an RAF event in August.
•Steveson was knocked out in 12 seconds at UFC 331.
•Nickal will fight Joe Pyfer in February at UFC Cleveland.
•Tensions escalated despite their previous friendly relationship.
•Scrutiny around Steveson intensified after his loss.

Latest Updates

10:19 PMYahoo Sports — Bo Nickal says Gable Steveson threatened to KO him backstage before UFC 331 upset: 'This is insane'

What they're saying

"
Nickal said he and Steveson got into a heated altercation at an RAF event in August. "I remember this so vividly — he's like, 'I'll knock you out.' That's what he said to me," Nickal told Uncrowned.
— Yahoo Sportsby Drake Riggs

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