LAS VEGAS – There was a small window of opportunity for Aaron Pico to join the Bellator featherweight grand prix but it didn’t even cross his mind.
After A.J. McKee underwent knee surgery in January, there was a potential opening in the tournament, with Pico (5-3 MMA, 5-3 BMMA) being a potential choice.
But the young prospect wasn’t interested.
“No, I have no desire to be in the featherweight tournament,” Pico said earlier this month at a Dominance MMA media day in Las Vegas. “I’m just gonna take my time (and) get my fights in this year. But there’s other guys that probably deserve to be in the tournament over me. To be honest with you, I don’t want to be in the tournament – so I’m good.”
The matchup between McKee and Darrion Caldwell will indeed go down at Bellator 244, with no replacement necessary. As for Pico, who recently snapped a two-fight losing skid with a second-round knockout over Daniel Carey at Bellator 238, he’s looking to slowly build himself back up.
Aaron Pico wasn't interested in replacement spot in Bellator featherweight tournament