Among 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 commented.

Dustin Poirier believes Aaron Pico’s debut at UFC 319 did not go to plan because the newcomer “got in his own way.” Chicago hosted a busy 12-fight card, headlined by Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev.

Du Plessis has defied expectations since joining the UFC, proving himself against the best 185 pounds has to offer. He defeated former champ Robert Whittaker in a title eliminator, defeated Sean Strickland to win the title and successfully defended the title against another former champ in Israel Adesanya.