Aaron Pico’s long-awaited UFC debut ended in heartbreak, but the featherweight standout has made it clear he’s not done yet.
The 28-year-old came into UFC 319 as one of the most hyped signings from Bellator. His explosive style and highlight-reel knockouts made him a major free-agent pickup after Bellator’s closure, and fans expected a statement performance inside the Octagon. Instead, Pico’s aggressive approach cost him, as Lerone Murphy caught him with a spinning back elbow in the co-main event. The knockout handed Pico his first UFC loss and the fourth KO defeat of his career.
Pico faced no ordinary opponent. Murphy, ranked No. 6 at featherweight and still unbeaten at 17-0-1, showed why he’s a future title contender. The finish will likely be a Knockout of the Year candidate, and it overshadowed what was supposed to be Pico’s breakout UFC moment.
For Pico, the setback was another chapter in a career already filled with highs and lows. His professional debut in 2017 ended in just 24 seconds when he was submitted at Madison Square Garden. He bounced back with four straight knockouts, only to endure back-to-back KO losses later in his Bellator run. Despite the turbulence, he compiled a 13-4 record under the Bellator banner, with 11 of those wins coming by stoppage.
Coming up short in Chicago, Pico turned to social media to address his fans.
“Last night wasn’t my night, that’s the fight game,” Pico wrote. “I’m grateful for my team, my family, and everyone who continues to support me. The supporters that have been there from day one and my new supporters, I see you! Thank you.
“Wins and losses both teach lessons and I’ll come back sharper, stronger, and better prepared. Thank you all who have sent messages and checked in, my health is well. Thanks for riding with me. My story is not over.”
Pico’s words reflected the same resilience that carried him through past setbacks. He had entered UFC 319 on the back of two knockout wins in Bellator, though it had been 18 months since his last fight. With his wrestling pedigree, raw power, and ability to rebound, Pico has shown before that he can rebuild after a tough defeat.
For now, his UFC record begins at 0-1, but Aaron Pico made it clear his journey is far from finished
