You can, but I'm not certain it's a good idea. The VXL-3m (the brushless ESC) reputedly runs very hot, with some users burning through several independent of gearing. I guess the motor itself is just fine - maybe just use a Sidewinder controller instead.

Some find the mini plastic-geared waterproof Traxxas servos weak, so consider going with a metal-geared Hitec unit instead.