The UFC`s featherweight division has gained an exciting new member who aims to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Since his professional debut back in 2017, Aaron Pico has been one of the most talked-about contenders globally in the 145-pound weight class.
While initial speculation about Pico facing Movsar Evloev for his Octagon debut did not materialize, this doesn`t diminish his intention to make an immediate impact now that he has signed with the UFC.
The 28-year-old is setting his sights on the division`s biggest names, having already generated interest with his assessment of top fighter Ilia Topuria.
Before stepping into the Octagon for the first time under the UFC banner, the new signee recently spent time training alongside a fighter who not only held a UFC title but did so simultaneously in two weight classes.
Aaron Pico Trains with Henry Cejudo at Fight Ready in Arizona
Discussing his future plans after joining the UFC from PFL, Aaron Pico recently appeared on the Pound 4 Pound podcast alongside former champions Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman.
The former Bellator standout shared his ambitions and expectations for the coming years with the ex-titleholders.
It has now become clear, through posts on Pico and Cejudo`s Instagram stories, that this connection was more than just for content creation about the latest prominent fighter to transition promotions.
The California native is yet to challenge for a major title in his career, but he has accumulated significant experience with 17 professional fights under his belt, holding a record of 13-4.
However, he is continuously seeking to improve his skills. A video shared by `Triple C` showed him offering Pico advice during their training sessions at Cejudo`s primary training facility, Fight Ready MMA in Arizona.
Joining them for some light work on the mats was Kasey Tanner, an 8-1 bantamweight who also trains out of Fight Ready.
Alongside several pictures of himself and the former UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion, Pico shared a caption on his Instagram story expressing his goal as he prepares for one of the most highly anticipated Octagon debuts in recent memory.
“Happy to be here for few days learnin.”
Potential Opponents for Aaron Pico`s UFC Debut
The consideration of Aaron Pico potentially fighting Movsar Evloev for his debut signaled that he aims to enter the featherweight division at a high level, although this particular matchup seemed challenging for Evloev, who is widely considered deserving of a title shot.
UFC 314 saw notable featherweight victories, making fighters like Yair Rodriguez or Jean Silva strong potential first opponents for the new arrival.
Rising contenders such as Lerone Murphy, established names like Arnold Allen, or even former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling could also be viable options.
Given that Evloev was initially considered, Pico is likely slated for a significant matchup. Frankly, considering his fighting style, any pairing involving Aaron Pico is bound to deliver an exciting contest.
Rupert Hartwell