[1] Born and raised in Apopka, Florida, Nicholson played basketball growing up before being introduced to martial arts and boxing.
[4] After an amateur career in 2012 and 2013 where he held a record of 4–7, Nicholson made his professional MMA debut in February 2014.
[12] In June 2018, Nicholson entered into the $1 million Heavyweight tournament held by Professional Fighters League.
[16] In June 2019, Nicholson entered the second season of PFL's Heavyweight tournament and lost a decision to Francimar Barroso.
In December 2019, Nicholson was suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission for four years due to testing positive for three steroids.
[18] However, Silva's prevailing contract with Eagle Fighting Championship prevented him from competing at the event and he was initially replaced by Jack May.
[21] Nicholson defended his title against Valter Ignacio at Titan FC 82/ SBC 47: Revenge on June 2, 2023. losing the bout in the fourth round after tapping out due to injury.
[28] In 2016, Nicholson faced criticism for the racially-charged comments he made while cornering teammate Mike Perry in his bout against South Korean fighter Hyun Gyu Lim.
The UFC issued a formal statement that any future racially derogatory remarks by Nicholson "could result in a suspension from competition, or termination of his contract.