22-fight UFC fight veteran and former top 15 ranked Bantamweight asks for UFC release – ‘Still hungry’
“The Young Punisher” is ready for a new chapter. Longtime Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) veteran and former Top 15 Bantamweight Pedro Munhoz has officially requested his release from the promotion after more than a decade on the roster. Munhoz, who hasn’t competed since a unanimous decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Edmonton in 2024, […]
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 09: Pedro Munhoz of Brazil reacts during the first round against Kyler Phillips in a bantamweight fight during the UFC 299 event at Kaseya Center on March 09, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) | Zuffa LLC via Getty Images “The Young Punisher” is ready for a new chapter. Longtime Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) veteran and former Top 15 Bantamweight Pedro Munhoz has officially requested his release from the promotion after more than a decade on the roster.
Munhoz, who hasn’t competed since a unanimous decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Edmonton in 2024, resurfaced on social media to share the news — and explain his reasoning. “Since 2014, I’ve been part of the UFC, building my name, proving myself, and showing what I’m capable of inside that octagon,” Munhoz wrote on Instagram . After 32 fights, I can proudly say I’ve never been submitted or knocked out.
I’ve always stepped in there with heart, discipline, and respect for the game There comes a point in life when you don’t just stay comfortable, you take control of what’s next. Right now, I feel it’s time to take a new direction, explore different opportunities, and focus on other important areas of my life. I’ve asked the UFC to release me, and I’m currently in the process of becoming a free agent I’m not retiring yet.
Still hungry. Still focused. Still ready to put on great fights and make statements.