.png)
Aaron Pico is ready for the next chapter of his career, but the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is standing in his way. The talented featherweight, known for his explosive fighting style, has expressed frustration over his contractual situation, pleading with PFL co-founder Donn Davis to release him so he can sign with the UFC.
Pico (13-4) has only fought once since PFL acquired Bellator in late 2023. His first-round TKO victory over Henry Corrales at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champions event in Saudi Arabia was supposed to be the beginning of a promising run. Instead, he’s been sidelined due to contract constraints.
Despite his desire to move to the UFC, Pico remains bound by PFL’s contractual clause, which allows them to match any offer he receives. This stipulation has left him frustrated and uncertain about his future.
“I am a free agent, but there’s only one little thing, one hiccup: that PFL has the right to match any offer I receive,” Pico told MMA Junkie Radio. “So I’m still waiting for an offer from the UFC, but that’s the hiccup that I have in my contract. UFC is where I want to go.”
Pico revealed that PFL has failed to keep its promises, particularly regarding a title fight. According to him, Davis assured him of a championship bout in California, even shaking hands on the agreement. However, that fight never materialized. Instead, Pico was offered different matchups, only to have them canceled without explanation.
His frustration grew as he was repeatedly pulled from fights with no clear communication. Whether it was a planned bout against Jesus Pinedo, Jeremy Kennedy, or even a title fight against Patricio Pitbull, every opportunity was taken away at the last minute.
At 28, Pico is at a critical point in his career, and he fears that PFL’s exclusive matching period could extend up to a year, potentially keeping him inactive for two years. He has made a direct appeal to Donn Davis, urging him to grant his full release.
“Only one holding this up – and I’m just going to say it very, very bluntly – is Donn Davis,” Pico said. “Donn Davis can just give me my release and say you’re free to go to true free agency and test and see what’s the best fit for you, and that’s that. But like I said, he doesn’t want to do that. I have no idea why.”
Pico remains hopeful for a resolution but is growing increasingly impatient. With the UFC being his ultimate goal, he is determined to find a way to compete at the highest level and face the toughest opponents.
The ball is now in PFL’s court. Will they allow Pico to pursue his dreams, or will they continue to hold him back? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Aaron Pico is ready for the next big challenge, and he won’t stop fighting for his future.