Aaron Pico Seeks UFC Move Amid PFL Standoff

Featherweight fighter Aaron Pico is in a contractual impasse with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), expressing his desire to join the UFC. Despite being a free agent, the PFL retains matching rights, meaning they can match any UFC offer he receives, compelling him to return to the PFL. Pico has voiced his frustration over the delay in his career progress, citing a year of inactivity and an unfulfilled promise of a title fight by PFL. PFL chairman Donn Davis acknowledges Pico's status and clarifies the matching rights clause as a standard in MMA contracts. Pico remains adamant about not fighting for PFL, willing to wait another year if necessary for his unrestricted release. Meanwhile, Davis announced PFL's new format starting in July, featuring single-elimination tournaments with former champions.