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.

Our UFC 319 picks don't think Aaron Pico successfully transitions from Bellator when he goes toe to toe vs. Lerone Murphy

UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev headline an overall entertaining UFC 319 fight card