UFC 309: Bo Nickal vs. Paul Craig: Live round-by-round updates

A middleweight matchup between Bo Nickal and Paul Craig will serve as one of the undercard bouts for UFC 309 later tonight (Nov. 16) at the Madison Square Garden, New York.

Nickal (6-0) is one of the most accomplished wrestlers to have ever graced MMA. The 28-year-old is a former the time NCAA title holder and a US Open, and under-23 world champion.

Since switching his sights to MMA in 2022, Nickal has racked up a stellar resume with a 100 percent finish rate. He is Dana White Contender's Series 2022 alumn and boasts a UFC record of 3-0.

Craig (17-8-1) though, is a big step up in competition. The Scotsman holds wins against the likes of former light-heavyweight champions Jamahal Hill and Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua and the current No.1-ranked 205-pound contender Magomed Ankalaev.

However, 'Bearjew's' recent run in the UFC has left a lot to be desired with him going 1-4 in his last five.

The promotion's website has Nickal as a -1350 favorite for the match-up, with Craig as a +800 underdog.

The main card of the event is now live. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the fight card.

Check out the pair's final face-off for UFC 309 below:

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UFC 309: Bo Nickal vs. Paul Craig

Round 1

Nickal is employing quick jabs and low kicks to try and close the distance. Craig is using a cautious approach and trips Nickal with a low kick.

Craig is looking much bigger than the American. Craig is looking extremely comfortable on his feet and is unloading high kicks to keep his opponent on his toes.

Nickal looks a bit hesitant to engage and is yet to find his rhythm on the feet. He connects with a quick left hand. Craig returns fire with a powerful left hand. His opponent's superior reach seems to be giving Nickal issues. A close first round.

Our score: 10-9 Craig.

Round 2

Nickal has dialed up the pressure, he is trying to mount an offensive. A straight left lands for the American. Another good left-hand land for Nickal. He unloads a power overhand right on his opponent up top. The 28-year-old is having a much better round.

Craig is using crushing body kicks in an effort to slow down his opponent. Nickal unloads a drop-down left hand. Both fighters are still employing a cautious approach, carefully picking their shots.

Nickal unloads another straight which lands flush on Craig's chin. More success for Nickal on the feet and he lands a right hand on his opponent at the end of the round.

Our score: 10-9 Nickal.

Round 3

As the final round unfolds, Nickal lands a looping overhand right upstairs. Craig misses with a high kick. 'Beajew' showboats as he taunts Nickal for not engaging.

Craig connects partially with a high kick, and Nickal returns fire with a straight left hand. He hurts Craig with a nuclear leaping left hook, which opens up a cut under 'Bearjew's' right eye.

The Scotsman is trying to go back on the offensive, trying to deny his opponent from capitalizing on his cut. A buckling left hand lands late for Nickal.

Our score: 10-9 Nickal.

Official decision: Bo Nickal def. Paul Craig via unanimous decision. (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)