Aaron Pico to Face Lerone Murphy at UFC 319 in Chicago

What's Happening?

American featherweight fighter Aaron Pico is set to compete against British competitor Lerone Murphy in the co-main event of UFC 319, scheduled for August 17 in Chicago, USA. Pico was initially slated to fight Russian fighter Movsar Evloev at UFC on ABC 9 on July 26 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, but Evloev withdrew from the bout. Pico's most recent fight was against Henry Corrales in February 2024 at the PFL vs. Bellator event, where he secured a victory by technical knockout in the first round. Pico currently holds a professional record of 13 wins and four losses. On the other hand, Murphy's last fight was against Josh Emmett in April 2025 at UFC on ESPN 65, where he won by unanimous decision. Murphy's record stands at 16 wins, one draw, and no losses.

Why It's Important?

The upcoming fight between Aaron Pico and Lerone Murphy at UFC 319 is significant for both fighters as it presents an opportunity to enhance their standings in the featherweight division. For Pico, a victory could solidify his comeback after his recent win against Henry Corrales, potentially positioning him for higher-profile fights in the future. Murphy, who remains undefeated, aims to maintain his winning streak and further establish himself as a formidable contender in the division. The fight also holds importance for the UFC as it continues to showcase international talent and maintain its global appeal. The event in Chicago is expected to draw significant attention from fans and media, contributing to the sport's growing popularity.

What's Next?

Following the fight, the winner could see opportunities for more high-profile matchups within the UFC featherweight division. A victory for Pico might lead to a rematch with top contenders or even a title shot, depending on the outcome of other fights in the division. For Murphy, maintaining his undefeated record could propel him into the spotlight, potentially leading to main event opportunities. The UFC will likely continue to monitor both fighters' progress and marketability as they plan future events and matchups.