June 18, 2025: Aaron Pico’s long-anticipated UFC debut is officially set. The former Bellator featherweight standout will face undefeated contender Movsar Evloev in the co-main event of UFC on ABC 9, taking place July 27 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Pico (13-4 MMA, 0-0 UFC), one of the most high-profile signings from Bellator earlier this year, steps into the Octagon for the first time after an impressive run in his previous promotion. Known for his explosive style, Pico has finished 11 of his 13 career victories. He last fought in February 2024, moving up to lightweight for a PFL vs. Bellator showcase event, where he delivered a first-round knockout win over Henry Corrales—his third consecutive victory.
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This bout will mark Pico’s third straight appearance overseas, following a career that initially unfolded entirely in the United States.
Across the cage will be Russia’s Movsar Evloev (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC), an undefeated rising star who has built an impressive resume within the UFC. All nine of his UFC victories have come by decision, with recent wins over top names like Arnold Allen and former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling.
The event will be headlined by a middleweight clash between former UFC champion Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder, a former dual titleholder in ONE Championship who recently shocked the MMA world by defeating Bo Nickal.
Updated UFC on ABC 9 Lineup:
- Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder
- Movsar Evloev vs. Aaron Pico
- Marcus McGhee vs. Petr Yan
- Bryce Mitchell vs. Said Nurmagomedov
- Marc-Andre Barriault vs. Shara Magomedov
- Amanda Ribas vs. Tabatha Ricci
- Bogdan Guskov vs. Nikita Krylov
- Asu Almabayev vs. Ramazan Temirov
- Ibo Aslan vs. Billy Elekana
This stacked card promises high-stakes action and could mark the beginning of a new chapter for some of MMA’s biggest names.