Former Bellator MMA standout Aaron Pico is set to compete in his first five-round mixed martial arts fight, making his UFC debut on July 26th against top featherweight contender Movsar Evloev. This bout will serve as the co-main event for UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, with only one other five-round fight on the card: former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker versus Reinier de Ridder, a two-division One Championship titleholder. UFC President Dana White praised Pico, calling him a highly skilled and aggressive striker with exceptional grappling ability.
Pico’s debut in the UFC highlights the promotion’s high regard for his potential. Evloev, undefeated with a 19-0 record and ranked fourth in the UFC featherweight division, is considered a serious contender for the featherweight title against Alexander Volkanovsky. However, by facing an unranked newcomer like Pico, Evloev risks his standing in the division.
Before signing with UFC in April, Pico made a name for himself in Bellator and the Professional Fighters League but never fought for a title. He is also a celebrated wrestler with several major freestyle wrestling gold medals and was an alternate for the 2016 Olympics. Upon joining the UFC, Pico expressed his excitement and determination on Instagram, stating that becoming a UFC champion is his ultimate goal, and he’s ready to work harder than ever to make it happen.
UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. de Ridder will take place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Fan Take: This matchup is pivotal for fighting fans as it showcases a rising MMA star stepping into the UFC’s spotlight against a seasoned contender. Pico’s transition to the UFC with a high-stakes, five-round fight signals an exciting new chapter for the featherweight division and could shake up the title landscape.
