Former Bellator Star Aaron Pico Officially Joins the UFC

Aaron Pico, one of MMA’s most promising talents, has officially signed with the UFC, as confirmed by his manager Ali Abdelaziz. The 28-year-old featherweight, long hailed as a generational prospect, brings his dynamic skill set to the world’s premier MMA promotion after an eventful career in Bellator and a brief stint under the PFL banner. This signing marks a significant addition to the UFC’s stacked featherweight division.

Aaron Pico has officially signed a contract with the UFC, per his manager @AliAbdelaziz00. Huge addition to 145!

— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) April 8, 2025

From Bellator Phenom to UFC Contender

Pico’s journey to the UFC has been anything but ordinary. Once touted as the greatest prospect in MMA history, the California native began his professional career in Bellator at just 20 years old. Despite a shocking submission loss in his debut, Pico quickly rebounded, showcasing his devastating knockout power and elite wrestling pedigree. Over time, he established himself as one of Bellator’s marquee fighters, amassing a record of 13-4 with nine knockouts.

Following the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator in late 2023, Pico fought just once under the new banner, avenging a prior loss to Henry Corrales with a spectacular first-round knockout. However, dissatisfaction with his opportunities led Pico to wait out his contract and pursue free agency earlier this year. His signing with the UFC fulfills a long-standing goal for both him and Abdelaziz, who had been vocal about Pico’s desire to compete against the best fighters in the world.

Now entering the UFC on a three-fight winning streak, Pico is poised to make an immediate impact in the featherweight division. His combination of Olympic-level wrestling, Golden Gloves boxing accolades, and an aggressive fighting style makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone at 145 pounds.

What’s Next for Aaron Pico?

The UFC featherweight division is already brimming with talent, including stars like Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Brian Ortega. Pico’s arrival adds another layer of intrigue to an already competitive weight class. While earlier reports had his debut might come against undefeated contender Movsar Evloev in a five-round main event at UFC Fight Night on May 17 however, that was nixed after Evloev said he’s going to wait and see what happens between Volkanovski and Diego Lopes at UFC 314 this weekend.

While some may question whether Pico is ready for a top-5 ranked opponent, his track record suggests he thrives under pressure. Since overcoming early career setbacks, he has gone 9-1 in his last ten fights, with his sole loss coming from a shoulder injury rather than being outclassed. His ability to finish fights, whether through striking or grappling, makes him one of the most exciting additions to the UFC roster in recent memory.

A Star Ready for the Spotlight

Pico’s signing represents more than just another talented fighter joining the ranks; it signals his readiness to fulfill the immense potential that has followed him since his teenage years. With fans eagerly anticipating his debut, all eyes will be on how Pico handles this next chapter in his career.

If he can replicate his success from Bellator and continue evolving as a fighter, Aaron Pico could soon find himself among the elite in one of MMA’s most competitive divisions. For now, anticipation builds as fight fans await official confirmation of his first opponent in the Octagon.