It was a rough start for life in the UFC for Aaron Pico.
Pico became the newest former Bellator -striking to jump from the PFL to the UFC this year and to become a member of Patricio Pitbull and Patchy Mix. Both two ex-champions were not successful in their debut, and the UFC 319 newcomer could not do better.
While Pitbull and Mix drop decisions in their first Octagon appearances, a much more cheeky fate awaited the American featherweight in Chicago last Saturday. Pico was eliminated by Lerone Murphy, who the 28-year-old cold with a rotating elbow in the first round of the UFC 319 Co-Main event.
The result led to concern about Pico's health, because he was unconscious for a long period and has affected his hope for a rapid rise of the title of Alexander Volkanovski. But he was encouraged to keep his head up by one of the top stars of the UFC.
Islam Makhachev sends Aaron Pico -Words of encouragement after UFC 319 setback
Pico issued his first explanation on UFC 319 Sunday evening and thanked his team and supporters before he promised to return stronger and sharper.
The American, who trains under the same coach as the legendary Jon Jones, received a lot of support in the commentary section of fans, media personalities and his colleagues hunters.
One of the most prominent to send Pico a message was former lightweight and pound-for-pound King Islam Makhachev, who had words of encouragement for the newcomer after a devastating first outing under the UFC banner.
“Head up champ,” Makhachev noted.
Islam Makhachev knows how to bounce back from a UFC knockout loss
When it comes to how Pico returns after the devastating result of Saturday, he will undoubtedly follow in the footsteps of Makhachev.
While the Dagestani won his Octagon debut, Makhachev was eliminated by Adriano Martins in his second UFC fight almost ten years ago.
Since then, the 33-year-old has become a point of 15 consecutive victories. The active streak includes the lightweight title victory of Makhachev against Charles Oliveira, back-to-back defenses versus Alexander Volkanovski, and the submission triumph at the expense of Renato Moicano Last Time Out.
The next chapter in the illustrious career of Makhachev is expected to come in November when he focuses on two-division Glorie against Welterweight champion Jack della Maddalena.