22-time Octagon veteran requests UFC release

Defeating Cody Garbrandt was one of the high points of Pedro Munhoz's UFC career. | Getty/UFC

Pedro Munhoz is ready to move on to the next phase of his career.

The 39-year-old UFC bantamweight veteran revealed via Instagram that he has requested his release from the Las Vegas-based promotion. “The Young Punisher” hasn’t competed since November 2024, when he dropped a unanimous verdict to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Fight Night 246.

A New Direction

“Since 2014, I’ve been part of the UFC, building my name, proving myself, and showing what I’m capable of inside that octagon. 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,” Munhoz wrote.

“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.”

A former Resurrection Fighting Alliance champion, Munhoz went 10-10 with two no contests during his UFC tenure. The American Top Team product earned noteworthy wins over the likes of Rob Font, Cody Garbradnt, Jimmie Rivera and Chris Gutierrez during his time with the organization.