An unsuccessful debut on a big stage, Aaron Pico has been here before.
Few UFC fighters have had the hype of Aaron Pico heading into their first fight in the Octagon.
The featherweight knockout artist was a massive star under the Bellator banner, who gained valuable experiences from not just incredible wins but stoppage losses as well.
Eight years prior to signing to the UFC, Pico lost his pro MMA debut in 24 seconds at Madison Square Garden in 2017. Pico rebounded from his first loss with four-straight KO’s and had to regroup again after losing back-to-back fights by knockout.
Pico’s aggressive fighting style cost him once again in his UFC debut against Lerone Murphy at UFC 319, where the 28-year-old was caught with a spinning elbow for his fourth KO loss—his first inside the Octagon.
Pico seems to be in good spirits post-fight.
Aaron Pico releases statement after unsuccessful UFC debut
Pico didn’t lose to just anybody, the debutant lost to #6-ranked contender and potential next challenger Murphy, who’s 17-0-1 as a pro.
Coming up short in his UFC entry, Pico addressed his fans on social media.
“Last night wasn’t my night, that’s the fight game,” Pico wrote on Sunday.
“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,” said Pico.
Kai Asakura also fell to 0-2 at UFC 319
Another recent UFC signee Kai Asakura has yet to live up to the hype.
A former bantamweight champion in RIZIN, Japan’s Asakura was given an immediate title opportunity against flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja in the main event of UFC 310 in December. Asakura didn’t make it three rounds with Pantoja.
Asakura was submitted by Pantoja by rear-naked choke and then again, months later in his return against former title challenger Tim Elliott.
Elliott caught Asakura in a guillotine choke at UFC 319, tapping him out in the second round to win by submission.
The 31-year-old Asakura is now 0-2 as a UFC fighter.