Aaron Pico Officially Becomes a UFC Fighter

Aaron Pico has officially signed with the UFC.

The featherweight contender was released from PFL and has agreed to join the UFC roster. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed this information on Tuesday.

Pico later confirmed his signing in a post on Instagram.

“After years of intense work, dedication, and unwavering belief, it`s official – I`ve signed with the UFC!” Pico announced. “This is more than just a dream come true; it’s a new beginning. Thank you to my family, my manager Ali Abdelaziz, coaches, training partners, and everyone who has supported me. Your belief has fueled me.”

“The ultimate goal? To become the UFC champion. I’m ready to work harder than ever to achieve that.”

This deal happened after Pico was out of contract with PFL, but they retained matching rights. Pico had mentioned he was prepared to wait out these matching rights to pursue his UFC dream.

Ultimately, PFL allowed Pico to leave, and he has now signed with the UFC. His first fight is expected to be scheduled soon.

The 28-year-old is considered a top prospect in MMA, with a background in wrestling and boxing. Pico initially signed with Bellator MMA as a teenager while still aiming for the 2016 Olympic wrestling team.

He transitioned to MMA but faced initial challenges, losing his debut fight.

Pico then improved, working with coaches like Brandon Gibson and Greg Jackson, achieving a 9-1 record in his last 10 fights across Bellator and PFL. His only loss was due to a shoulder injury against Jeremy Kennedy.

He recovered from that loss with three wins, including a knockout victory over Henry Corrales in early 2024, avenging an earlier defeat.

Pico now joins the UFC featherweight division, aiming for a quick ascent as the promotion prepares to crown a new champion when Alexander Volkanovski faces Diego Lopes at UFC 314.