Aaron Pico criticizes Aljamain Sterling for overprotecting UFC ranking

Aaron Pico accuses former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling of turning down fights against him.

By Danny Segura · Yahoo

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 6:46 PM

Key Things to Know

Aaron Pico accused Aljamain Sterling of turning down fights to protect his UFC ranking.
Pico also questioned Sterling's fighting mentality.
Pico defeated Losene Keita via first-round TKO in 74 seconds at UFC 333.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Aaron Pico has openly criticized former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling, accusing him of turning down matchups to protect his featherweight ranking. Pico questioned Sterling's fighting mentality after making comments regarding potential opponents following his recent action inside the Octagon.

Pico recently delivered a 74-second first-round knockout over Losene Keita at UFC 333 on October 24, 2026, in Abu Dhabi to move his UFC record to 2-1. Meanwhile, Sterling has reportedly set his sights on other opportunities after Alexander Volkanovski defended the featherweight title at the same event.

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Aaron Pico criticizes Aljamain Sterling for overprotecting UFC ranking

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