Former Bellator standout Aaron Pico appears set to be thrown into the deep end on MMA’s biggest stage.
Pico quickly made a name for himself as an all-out entertainer after debuting as a professional at Bellator 180 in 2017. The Californian went on to compete 16 times for the promotion before it was acquired by the PFL, defeating the likes of Leandro Higo and Pedro Carvalho.
The 28-year-old fought once post-PFL purchase, defeating Henry Corrales on the PFL vs. Bellator card in February 2024. After a lengthy stint on the sidelines, Pico joined the likes of Patricio Pitbull and Patchy Mix in publicly criticizing the PFL and requesting their release.
Pico ultimately got his wish at the start of this year and soon made his way to the UFC, where a tough test seemingly awaits him on debut.
According to Red Corner MMA, the former freestyle wrestler will enter the Octagon for the first time to do battle with the undefeated Movsar Evloev, the current #4-ranked featherweight in the UFC.
Much to the dismay of fans and pundits alike, the report also puts Aaron Pico’s debut on the UFC Fight Night card set for the low-capacity Apex venue on May 17.
Reactions to the news has varied, with some focusing on the opportunity ahead of Pico and others slamming the UFC for putting him on an Apex card.
