Pedro Munhoz is preparing to close the longest chapter of his career, as the veteran bantamweight has officially requested his release from the UFC after more than a decade with the promotion.
“The Young Punisher”, who joined the roster in 2014, confirmed the decision through a social media statement, signaling his intention to explore opportunities outside the Octagon while continuing to compete.
“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.”
Pedro Munhoz Eyes New Opportunities After Long UFC Run
Munhoz believes the timing is right to take control of the next phase of his career rather than remain in a familiar environment.
“There comes a point in life when you don’t just stay comfortable, you take control of what’s next,” he wrote. “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.”
Despite the move, Munhoz made it clear that retirement is not part of the plan.
“I’m not retiring yet. Still hungry. Still focused. Still ready to put on great fights and make statements.”
Throughout his UFC tenure, “The Young Punisher” built a reputation as one of the division’s toughest and most durable fighters. Across more than 20 appearances, he shared the cage with some of the biggest names in bantamweight history, including Jose Aldo, Dominick Cruz, Aljamain Sterling, Sean O’Malley, Frankie Edgar, and Cody Garbrandt.
The 39-year-old Brazilian veteran also secured notable victories over Garbrandt, Rob Font, and Jimmie Rivera, while earning multiple post-fight bonuses along the way.
However, recent results have been less favorable. Munhoz enters free agency on a three-fight losing streak and posted a 2-7-1 record across his last ten outings. He was last seen in action in November 2024, when he dropped a unanimous decision to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Edmonton.
Even so, his durability, experience, and name recognition are expected to draw interest from other promotions. Organizations such as PFL and BKFC could emerge as potential landing spots.