22-fight UFC fight veteran and former top 15 ranked Bantamweight asks for UFC release – ‘Still hungry’

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.”

With Munhoz probably on a nice contract and being a UFC soldier, he’ll most likely be granted his release.

At 39 years old, Munhoz leaves behind a lengthy and battle-tested run in the Bantamweight division, where he shared the Octagon with a who’s who of elite competition — including Aljamain Sterling, Jose Aldo, Dominick Cruz, Sean O’Malley, Frankie Edgar, and Cody Garbrandt.

During his UFC tenure, Munhoz earned four “Fight of the Night” bonuses, three “Performance of the Night” bonuses, and compiled 22 appearances inside the Octagon — the second-most in Bantamweight history behind Marlon Vera.

However, the Brazilian struggled in the latter stages of his career, dropping three straight fights and going 2-7-1 in his last 10 outings.

Given his experience, name value, and durability, Munhoz should have no shortage of options if his release is granted — with promotions like BKFC or PFL likely in the mix.

One thing is clear:

He’s not done yet.

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