Aaron Pico, a failed debut on a large stage, has been here before.
Few UFC hunters have had the hype of Aaron Pico on their way to their first fight in the Octagon.
The featherweight knockoutist was a huge star among the Bellator Banner, who had valuable experiences of not only incredible victories, but also for stopping losing.
Eight years before he signed at the UFC, Pico lost his Pro MMA debut in 24 seconds in Madison Square Garden in 2017. Pico recovered from his first loss with four-right KOs and had to regroup himself after losing back-to-back fights by knockout.
Pico's aggressive fighting style cost him again in his UFC debut against Lerone Murphy on UFC 319, where the 28-year-old was caught with a rotating elbow for his fourth KO loss-being first in the Octagon.
Pico seems to be good after the fight.
Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty images
Aaron Pico gives a statement free after failed UFC debut
Pico did not lose to anyone, the debutant lost to #6-ranged competitor and potential next challenger Murphy, who is 17-0-1 as a professional.
Came in his UFC entry, Pico appealed to his fans on social media.
“Last night was not my night, that's the fighting game,” Pico wrote on Sunday.
“I am grateful for my team, my family and everyone who continues to support me. The supporters who have been there from the first day and my new supporters, I see you! Thank you.
“Win and losses teach both lessons and I will come back sharper, stronger and better prepared. Thanks all those messages have sent and checked in, my health is good.
'Thanks for driving with me.
“My story is not over,” said Pico.
Kai Asakura also fell on 0-2 on UFC 319
Another recent UFC signator Kai Asakura still has to live up to the hype.
A former Bantam weight champion in Rizin, the Japanese Asakura was given an immediate title Chance against flight weight champion Alexandre Pantoja in the main event of UFC 310 in December. Asakura did not make it three rounds with Pantoja.
Asakura was submitted by Pantoja by the rear naked choke and again, months later in his return to former title challenge Tim Elliott.
Elliott caught Asakura in a guillotine choke on UFC 319 and drew it out in the second round to win through the entry.
The 31-year-old Asakura is now 0-2 as a UFC hunter.