SPECTOR X BO NICKAL - "THE ACE" - Official IMMORTALS™ Trading Card III (DROPS 4/18)
CLICK BELOW TO PURCHASE
WELCOME TO THE BO SHOW…
In early 2024, I had the privilege of connecting with a rising star in the UFC, none other than Bo Nickal. You might recognize him as the former NCAA 3X Wrestling champion from Penn State University, an esteemed All-American widely regarded as one of the finest wrestlers globally. Interestingly, I was already familiar with Bo's reputation before our paths crossed, and when the opportunity for this project arose, there was no hesitation on my part.
We're entering the Octagon alongside Bo, not only to immortalize his remarkable wrestling legacy but also to witness the birth of a new legacy. Bo's undefeated record of 6-0 in the UFC speaks volumes, positioning him as one of the most promising MMA prospects in the sport's history. This endeavor isn't just about crafting a single card; it's about sparking a revolutionary shift in the card industry. And with that said, our aim is to create a timeless piece of art that offers a unique experience.
Bo's journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for wrestlers worldwide. His prowess has transcended the realms of wrestling to establish him as a true mixed martial artist. With his exceptional journey and stellar performances against formidable opponents, Bo possesses all the qualities necessary to ascend to the ranks of UFC champion.
IMMORTALS TRADING CARDS
Immortals trading cards offer a redefined perspective on remarkable individuals who have undeniably shaped our sports world. These cards celebrate a legacy that transcends time, a career that remains unforgettable. Immortal trading cards capture a unique moment in history, one that has never been portrayed quite like this before. It's not just the person and their legacy that endure, but also the timeless artistry of the cards themselves.
“THE ACE” A CHAMPION IN THE MAKING
How can I encapsulate two legacies in a single piece of art? This question guided my creative journey with Bo. Penn State's wrestling legacy is formidable, and it's no wonder Bo chose to carve his collegiate career there. His dominance in high school seamlessly transitioned into the college arena.
In my creative process, I aimed to imbue depth and complexity into the narrative. The background features three Nittany lion paws breaking through a blue wall, symbolizing Bo's three championship titles at Penn State. Beyond lies another layer, caged and chained, representing Bo's untapped potential. Etched onto the wall are statements and stats familiar to any Bo Nickal fan: "Iron Sharpens Iron," a beloved Bible verse from Proverbs 27:17; "The Bo Show," emblematic of his thrilling performances; "that’s what we do," a recurring mantra throughout his wrestling career; "ROY," signifying Bo's 2023 UFC Rookie of the Year title; and, of course, his remarkable high school and collegiate wrestling records.
The subsequent layers delve into Bo's ongoing journey toward UFC championship glory. One standout detail is the twisted, severed metal chains, with Bo fiercely exerting his strength—a visual metaphor for "Iron Sharpens Iron," as the metal symbolizes his formidable power. Embedded within the tangled metal are the letters spelling "Ace" beside Bo's right arm, a nod to his son. Lastly, to heighten the intensity, a border of barbed wire chains crisscrosses the scene diagonally. Ultimately Bo's pose and expression exude the same fierce intensity as a Nittany lion, embodying his spirit as both a competitor and a fighter.
Flipping to the reverse side of the card, the narrative takes on greater depth. Prominently featured are logos for Immortals, the Special Olympics, and the Bo Nickal Logo, capturing the essence of the collaboration. Accompanying these are the signatures of both the Artist and the Athlete, sealing the partnership in ink. Adding layers to the story are personal quotes from both Bo Nickal and me. Noteworthy among them is Bo's acknowledgment of his wife's remarkable athletic achievements.
THE DROP
What awaits you is not merely a trading card; it is a complete experience. Every facet of this project has been meticulously crafted with an unwavering commitment to detail.
THE CHASE | HOW IT WORKS
Each limited-edition card in this collection comes factory-sealed and is distributed entirely at random. Should you come across rare card variants, they will replace a base card inside the box. Our goal is to offer an equal opportunity to all enthusiasts, whether you're making your first card purchase or you're a seasoned collector. The excitement lies in the prospect of uncovering something extraordinary—perhaps it's the elusive one-of-one card or a emerald galaxy parallel card adorned with an autograph. While every card guarantees proper value and excitement, the possibility of receiving something even more exceptional adds to the thrill. As a longtime card collector myself, I can attest that the anticipation of the unknown is always the most exhilarating part.
It's important to note that all cards are randomized using two methods: name randomization and an even ratio distribution. Our aim is to ensure fairness for everyone collecting. Parallels are distributed evenly based on the ratio of parallels to base cards in the set, ensuring an equal mix. Names are entered into a random name picker to determine the recipients of the parallel cards versus base cards. Without any bias. Furthermore, if you purchase multiple cards, your name is entered into the selection pool corresponding to the quantity of cards purchased. For instance, if you order 10 cards, your name is entered 10 times, increasing your chances of pulling a parallel card. This randomized process allows us to maintain fairness while also enabling us to know who receives what card in the event of lost or damaged packages. It also ensures that we can verify the original recipients and holders of these cards, safeguarding against potential forgeries.
What’s included:
1 Box
Black and cosmic blue 4x6 Immortals V1 magnetic tab box fully sealed. Includes UV gloss spotting on top of a matte finish.
1 Case
One touch magnetic card case sealed with an Immortals branded sticker.
1 Card
Licensed Limited-Edition Bo Nickal “The Ace” Trading Card
1 COA
Certificate of Authenticity
Base Card | 2178
EPOCHS BASE CARD | 27
SILVER CRIMSON PRISM | 183
CRIMSON AZURE PRISM | 131
AZURE PRISM | 120
AZURE SHRED PRISM | Authentic Auto | 27
CRIMSON ECLIPSE PRISM | Authentic Auto | 23
SAPHIRE SHRED PRISM |Authentic Auto | 17
GOLDEN PRISM | Authentic Auto | 8
GOLDEN EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
PLATINUM EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
RAINBOW EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
Base Card | 2178
This is the epitome of artistry and craftsmanship. The base card offers fans and collectors the exact experience they desire. Crafted with the utmost precision, each card boasts a premium silver foil finish. There are a mere 2,178 of these cards in existence, making them a rare and coveted treasure for the ultimate fan and collector. All base cards are sequentially numbered on the back in black ink.
EPOCHS BASE CARD | 27
The base chase! This is the base version of each 1 of 1 chase card. You will notice the addition of a vintage Bo Nickal as a youth wrestler. These rare cards are one of 12 unique variations and sequentially numbered to just 27. With its premium foil finish and custom player spot this card boasts a striking 3D effect. Tilt it in the light and watch as the foil displays its full spectrum of colors. These mesmerizing chase card editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
SILVER CRIMSON PRISM | 183
Inspired by Bo’s success in the UFC Contender series the silver crimson prism has a vibrant contrast and intense fiery affect to match the intensity Bo fights with inside the Octagon. These rare cards are one of 12 unique variations and sequentially numbered to just 183. With its premium foil finish, custom player spot, and a full holographic background, this card boasts a striking 3D effect. Tilt it in the light and watch as the foil displays its full spectrum of colors. These mesmerizing holographic editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
CRIMSON AZURE PRISM | 131
The crimson and azure card represents Allen High School where Bo recorded an impressive 131 pins. These rare cards are one of 12 unique variations and sequentially numbered to just 131. With its premium foil finish, custom player spot, and a full holographic background, this card boasts a striking 3D effect. Tilt it in the light and watch as the foil displays its full spectrum of colors. These mesmerizing holographic editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
AZURE PRISM | 120
The azure card mirrors that of the base, bringing out the popular Penn state blue, also Bos favorite color. These rare cards are one of 12 unique variations and sequentially numbered to just 120, representing the total wins recorded by Bo while wresting at Penn State University. With its premium foil finish, custom player spot, and a full holographic background, this card boasts a striking 3D effect. Tilt it in the light and watch as the foil displays its full spectrum of colors. These mesmerizing holographic editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
AZURE SHRED PRISM | Authentic Auto | 27
There are 27 azure shred prism authentic autograph cards in total, each sequentially numbered to 27. This number represents the first two numbers in one of Bo's favorite quotes from the Bible, Proverbs 27:17. A select few also include a dual autograph and inscription. These autograph editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
CRIMSON ECLIPSE PRISM | Authentic Auto | 23
There are 23 crimson eclipse prism authentic autograph cards in total, each sequentially numbered to 23. This number represents Bo winning UFC rookie of the year in 2023. A select few also include a dual autograph and inscription. These autograph editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
SAPHIRE SHRED PRISM |Authentic Auto | 11
There are 17 sapphire shred prism authentic autograph cards in total, each sequentially numbered to 17. This number represents the last two numbers in one of Bos favorite quotes from the Bible, proverbs 27:17. A select few also include a dual autograph and inscription. These autograph editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
GOLDEN PRISM | Authentic Auto | 8
There are 8 golden prism authentic autograph cards in total, each sequentially numbered to 8. This number represents the 8 walls of the octagon in which Bo plans to soon claim a championship belt! A select few also include a dual autograph and inscription. These autograph editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
GOLDEN EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
PLATINUM EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
RAINBOW EPOCHS PRISM | Authentic Auto | 1 /1
There are 3 one of one chase authentic autograph cards in total. You will notice the addition of a vintage Bo Nickal as a young wrestler. These are undoubtedly both Bo and my favorite cards in the entire set. These are also the rarest. The addition of Bo as a young wrestler adds an entire layer of history. These autograph editions are randomly sealed with the rest of the collection, replacing base cards at random to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to obtain one.
The Experience
When you receive your card in the mail, your expectations should not just be met but surpassed. Every aspect, from the packaging to the cards themselves, has been meticulously designed to offer a distinctive look and feel, all with the intention of narrating the legacy of Bo Nickal thus far.
The Box
- 4x6 inches
- Magnetic flap
- Interior UV spot chain liner
- Custom cut foam core interior
- Custom matte black box with matte texture
- Interior flap with silver foil Bo Nickal quote
- Outer white decals with branding and UV gloss spot
The Cards
- Front and back design
- Custom branded sticker seal
- One touch magnetic card case
- Plastic one touch resealable sleeve
- 24 pt cards
INTRODUCTION: TWO PASSIONS CONVERGE
The Walk-On Triumph
As a child, I was deeply rooted in two passions: football and art. Little did I imagine that someday, these two worlds would converge to shape my career. From the age of 5 to the end of high school, I indulged in art as a hobby, a talent hidden within me. Alongside, I pursued my love for football, balancing both with enduring passion.
Upon concluding my high school football journey, I had no definitive plans to continue playing in college. Yet, fate had other plans in store for me. Shortly after starting college, I found myself missing football more than I had anticipated. It was during this time that I encountered a group of individuals preparing to try out for the Temple football team. Their determination ignited a fire within me, and the rest, as they say, is history.
For seven rigorous months, I poured my heart and soul into training, pushing myself to new heights. When Temple University's annual walk-on tryouts arrived in the 2012 season, I had a mere 30 minutes to prove myself. To my surprise, I excelled at the tryout, and a week later, life-changing news arrived—I had made the team.
This moment marked a turning point in my life—a small-town athlete earning a spot on a Division I team. It was a euphoric experience, and I embraced it wholeheartedly, giving my all on the field.
However, my football journey was abruptly halted after two seasons, cut short by multiple injuries. Though it was a bitter pill to swallow, I soon came to realize that when one door another door opens.
When Art Was a Hidden Talent
Since childhood, I've harbored a natural interest for art, sketching from the moment I could grasp a pencil. Unsure of my skill level, I found solace and joy in creating daily, capturing the world around me with curiosity and wonder.
For over a decade, my art remained a personal sanctuary, a private pursuit, and a means of self-expression. It wasn't until my senior year of high school that I began to glimpse the potential of my artistic endeavors. With the unexpected support of my art teacher, who submitted my work without my knowledge, my creations garnered multiple first-place awards in Montgomery County in 2011.
Simultaneously, during that transformative year, I ventured into the realm of sports art, a minor milestone that hinted at the creative journey yet to unfold.
When Passions Collide
Throughout my life, my dual passions for art and football occupied the same space yet rarely intersected. By day, I was a football player, and by night, an artist—roles kept separate, known to few. Football always held sway, demanding more time and priority.
My football journey commenced at age ten and concluded at twenty, while my artistic journey began at five and, at thirty-one, feels like it's only just begun. Although one endeavor was cut short, I discovered that my other passion could breathe new life into it.
The lessons learned on the football field—dedication, discipline, and mental fortitude—shaped me into the man I am today. These experiences laid the groundwork for my foray into the art business.
In 2014, following the end of my football career, I reignited my passion for art, this time with a focus on sports. It marked a fresh start, a means to channel my love for football and other sports. Little did I know, this decision would propel me farther than I ever imagined. Sharing my work on social media garnered attention, leading to commissions from friends and family, including former teammates who have since risen to NFL stardom, such as Haason Reddick, Dion Dawkins, and Tyler Matakevich. Since 2014, there has been no turning back.
CLICK BELOW TO PURCHASE