Aaron Pico Refuses to Fight for PFL Again, Eyes UFC Move

Aaron Pico is ready to leave PFL behind. The 28-year-old featherweight standout, known for his knockout power, has stated he will not fight under the PFL banner again—even if it means sitting out for a year. With a record of 13-4, Pico has long been considered one of the most promising fighters outside of UFC.

Despite being a free agent, Pico's departure is complicated by PFL's contractual right to match any offer he receives. Speaking to ESPN, Pico made it clear: if the PFL exercises its matching rights, he will wait out the contract rather than re-sign.

“If they match it, then I’m with PFL and I’ll sit out one year,” Pico stated. “I don’t want to fight for PFL. If that means me sitting out, then I’ll do it.”

Pico’s career has been unusual from the start. In 2014, he signed a developmental deal with Bellator MMA before even making his professional debut. A former standout in wrestling and boxing, he spent his entire MMA career in Bellator before the PFL acquired the promotion in 2023.

Since the merger, Pico has fought just once and claims to have had three scheduled fights canceled. This lack of activity has frustrated him, pushing him to seek a fresh start elsewhere.

In response, PFL co-founder Donn Davis issued a statement on social media, saying the organization is simply exercising its standard contractual rights. Pico remains unmoved, arguing that the company has failed to provide him with consistent opportunities to compete.

“I understand that, but it’s standard to make sure that your fighters are fighting three fights per year,” Pico countered. “I haven’t been able to work.”

Several former Bellator stars have expressed similar frustrations since the PFL takeover. Ex-champions Gegard Mousasi and Patricio Pitbull have already secured their releases, and reigning bantamweight king Patchy Mix has also asked to be let go.

Looking ahead, the PFL has announced a new single-elimination tournament format for 2025, moving away from its traditional regular-season point system. However, for Pico, none of this seems to matter—his eyes are set on moving forward, and as far as he's concerned, that future does not include the PFL.