US freestyle wrestler puts Dana White’s rival on BLAST over broken PFL promise: “3 times you cancelled on me”
Aaron Pico expresses his frustration with the PFL and seeks a significant upgrade in his career by joining Dana White's promotion.
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One of the promising superstars of PFL has expressed his wish to join Dana White's promotion (Image via Imago/PFL/Shutterstock)
UFC CEO Dana White is often seen as maintaining a monopoly in the professional MMA circuit. Even with the emergence of new promotions like the Professional Fighters League (PFL), he remains unfazed by the competition. One of the main reasons for the UFC’s reputation in the MMA community is its ability to attract aspiring young fighters.
Recently, renowned MMA fighter Aaron Pico, who is under contract with the PFL, expressed his dissatisfaction with the promotion. In an exclusive interview with MMA Junkie, the American fighter voiced his frustrations about the treatment he has received from PFL. Notably, Pico specifically pointed a finger at PFL founder Donn Davis. As such, he has identified Davis as the main reason for his difficulties.
Only one holding this up – and I’m just going to say it very, very bluntly – is Donn Davis. 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. I don’t want to fight for you honestly. Three times you canceled on me… So I don’t trust him. I’m sure he’s a great guy, but this is business.
Aaron Pico via MMA Junkie
Pico comes from a background in freestyle wrestling. Interestingly, one notable moment in his career occurred in 2016 when, at the age of 19, he was close to becoming an Olympian. However, that did not happen, and he eventually transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA). Bellator MMA, which has been dissolved now, recognized Pico’s potential and signed him.
However, after the Professional Fighters League (PFL) acquired Bellator, the American wrestler became unhappy with the lack of opportunities. This dissatisfaction is one of the main reasons he has called for a chance to compete in Dana White’s promotion.
Aaron Pico tells "the whole story" of why he doesn't trust Donn Davis and speaks directly to PFL boss, imploring him "do what is right" and grant his outright release. 👀
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) February 18, 2025
"UFC is where I want to go."
(🎥 @MMAJunkieGeorge and @thegoze) pic.twitter.com/uj2FAkb2C8
Recently, it was not only Pico who expressed his desire to join the UFC. Prior to this, even the former Bellator featherweight champion, Patricio Pitbull, voiced his frustration with PFL and asked White to sign him to the UFC. Following that, the PFL quickly released the Brazilian MMA fighter from all his obligations. Now, it will be interesting to see how the situation develops for Pico.
PFL founder Donn Davis reacts to Aaron Pico seeking Dana White’s help
Aaron Pico is considered one of the most promising stars in the MMA community. Since his promotional debut in 2017, the American fighter has defeated several formidable opponents, losing only four times. His most recent defeat occurred against Jeremy Kennedy in 2022 at Bellator 268. Given his impressive skills, Pico could catch the attention of Dana White, who often seeks out promising MMA talent.
The bossmen of both the PFL and UFC do not have a good relationship. Dana White and Donn Davis have exchanged jabs over the years, showcasing their competitive rivalry. Interestingly, regarding Pico, Davis has stated that he is willing to let the UFC sign him. However, he remains open to match White’s offer if necessary.
Love Aaron Pico, rising star fighter and great person. To be clear @PFLMMA is NOT holding him back, Pico as free agent can sign TODAY with @UFC, and then #PFLMMA can decide whether to match offer. That is standard MMA contract Pico signed and how MMA industry works for everyone.
Donn Davis via X
Love Aaron Pico, rising star fighter and great person. To be clear @PFLMMA is NOT holding him back, Pico as free agent can sign TODAY with @UFC, and then #PFLMMA can decide whether to match offer. That is standard MMA contract Pico signed and how MMA industry works for everyone. https://t.co/6Hp5EhAoxX
— Donn Davis (@DonnDavisPFL) February 18, 2025
Pico competes in the lightweight division. Interestingly, if he joins UFC, the American fighter will face some of the most electrifying MMA fighters in the world. However, the current situation looks uncertain. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how things develop in this context.
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Nilaav Gogoi
(656 Articles Published)