Aaron Pico, a prominent name in the world of mixed martial arts, has made headlines with a bold declaration: he refuses to fight for the Professional Fighters League (PFL) again, even if that means enduring a year-long hiatus. Pico, currently a free agent with an impressive record of 13 wins and 4 losses, is actively pursuing a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). At just 28 years old, he is recognized as one of the elite featherweights across the globe, with a striking capability that has earned him nine out of his thirteen victories via knockout.
However, Pico’s aspirations face a significant obstacle. The PFL possesses matching rights under his contract, meaning they can match any offer he receives from another organization, effectively retaining him against his will. In a candid interview with ESPN, Pico stated that he would rather take a break from fighting altogether than continue with the PFL. “If they match it, then I’m with the PFL, and I’ll sit out one year,” he asserted. His passionate commitment to avoiding the PFL indicates a profound mistrust in the organization and a staunch desire to chart a new course for his career.
What distinguishes Pico’s career journey is his unconventional entry into the professional realm. He signed a developmental contract with Bellator MMA in 2014—a full three years prior to officially stepping into the cage for his first match. After being acquired by the PFL in late 2023, he has found himself in a cloud of uncertainty, having only fought once since this transition. The disappearance of potential fights, including three cancelations, has not only delayed his progress but also shaken his faith in the PFL as a viable promotion.
Public Sentiment and Industry Trends
Pico is not alone in his frustrations; other Bellator fighters have echoed similar grievances regarding a lack of fighting opportunities following the PFL’s takeover. Well-respected former champions like Gegard Mousasi and Patricio Pitbull Freire have successfully sought their releases, while bantamweight champion Patchy Mix has expressed a desire to follow suit. This collective discontent suggests a broader problem within the PFL, raising questions about its commitment to its fighters and the operational shifts that have taken place since acquiring Bellator.
Looking Toward the Future
As the PFL prepares for significant format changes in 2025—shifting from a regular-season point system to a single-elimination tournament—industry observers are left weighing the potential implications of these decisions on fighter management and competition dynamics. For Pico, the focus remains decisively on the UFC. His unwavering stance against the PFL signifies his readiness to embrace a fresh start, reflecting both his ambition and dissatisfaction with the status quo in professional mixed martial arts.
Pico’s journey underscores the battles many fighters face in navigating their careers amid shifting organizational landscapes. His courage to voice his intentions and concerns may pave the way for a new chapter, not just for himself but potentially for other fighters seeking to reclaim autonomy over their careers.