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Aaron Pico books his toughest test vs. ex-title challenger Leandro Higo at Bellator 206

The toughest test of Aaron Pico’s young career awaits him.

Pico, a featherweight super prospect, will look to continue his winning streak when he meets former title challenger Leando Higo on Sept. 29 at Bellator 206 from SAP Center in San Jose, Calif. A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed the booking to MMAjunkie following an initial report by The Orange County Register.

The 21-year-old Pico (3-1 MMA, 3-1 BMMA) has been on a tear ever since his stunning loss in his debut. His last three fights, all victories, have ended in first-round stoppages. Pico has produced two of the most memorable finishes this year. At Bellator 192 in January, he TKO’d Shane Krutchen with a body punch in 37 seconds. Then at Bellator 199 in May, Pico crumbled Lee Morrison with a body punch that led to a stoppage win.

After the win over Morrison, Pico talked about wanting to face bigger challenges sooner than later.

“The year ahead is coming closer to ranked guys and winning the world championship,” Pico said. “People thought I was crazy when came into MMA, and I said I don’t want to fight guys with losing records. But for me personally, fighting a guy that’s 2-4 or 1-3, and then hitting him with a body shot and knocking him out, just because I know I’m capable of doing it, I just wouldn’t feel good as a person. That’s not right. Because when I’m 26, it’s just going to be another day at the office. Those are my rules.”

It’ll be interesting to see just how prepared Pico is for an experienced veteran like Higo (18-4 MMA, 1-2 BMMA).

The 29-year-old Brazilian will look to rebound after suffering a first-round submission loss to bantamweight champ Darrion Caldwell in their title fight at Bellator 195 in March.

For more on Bellator 206, visit the MMA Rumors section of the site.

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