The PFL’s loss of fighters Patricio Pitbull and Aaron Pico may become the UFC’s gain, as both athletes are potential candidates for the UFC roster, with Pico being a more likely prospect due to his age and recent performance.
The PFL’s loss could soon become the UFC’s gain. Funny how things turn around, right?
Just days after Patricio Pitbull, former Bellator featherweight champion, got his release from the PFL, top contender Aaron Pico hit free agency. Both fighters might just land on the UFC roster soon.
Pitbull was clear: it’s UFC or bust. He wasn’t happy with PFL’s treatment during his lengthy layoff. No clarity on competition schedules left him frustrated, leading to a public plea for release. Donn Davis, PFL co-founder, eventually granted his wish.
At 37, Pitbull is in the twilight of his career. His accomplishments in Bellator? Unmatched. But does the UFC want him? That’s the million-dollar question.
“I don’t know,” Dana White, UFC CEO, said about signing Pitbull at the UFC 311 post-fight press conference. “We’ll talk to the boys about that and we’ll see where we’re at.” Sounds like a classic wait-and-see approach.
White’s non-committal stance on Pitbull doesn’t extend to Pico. Different story there.
Aaron Pico, once an Olympic wrestling hopeful turned MMA prodigy, is seen as a future champ. He’s on a three-fight win streak with a 9-1 record in his last ten fights. Only loss? A freak shoulder injury against Jeremy Kennedy in 2022.
Pico has one edge over Pitbull: age.
At just 28, Pico is arguably entering his prime. White didn’t hesitate to show interest in potentially signing him. Youth and talent—a winning combo for sure.
“I definitely know the boys are interested in him,” White said about Pico. High praise from the top!
Davis mentioned during a recent Town Hall that Pico doesn’t have any fights left on his contract. Yet, PFL is trying hard to re-sign him.
But here’s the catch: Pico’s exclusive negotiating window with PFL is closing soon. He’ll be free to entertain offers from any promotion interested in signing him.
Clearly, that includes the UFC. It’s very possible Pico signs there soon, eager to resume his career ASAP.