Surging bantamweight Chris Gutierrez had another solid test in front of him Saturday, as he took on Pedro Munhoz at UFC Kansas City.
Gutierrez was undefeated since his UFC debut, and coming in off a finish against former lightweight champ and UFC legend Frankie Edgar. Munhoz was 1-4 in his last six fights, plus a No Contest against Sean O’Malley due to an eye poke.
Munhoz was in must-win territory at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.
The UFC veteran came forward with pressure early on, negating Gutierrez’ output before dropping him with a left hook and effectively dominating the first frame.
Neither fighter did much in the second round, landing a few low kicks here and there while remaining defensively sound. The fight had become a chess match according to UFC Commentator Michael Bisping.
The two bantamweights picked up the pace as the final round waned on, though the crowd had grown restless, showering the combatants with boos as the final bell rang throughout the T-Mobile Center.
The three judges scored all three rounds of the contest in favor of Pedro Munhoz, as the 36 year-old gets back into the win column with an impressive victory over a game opponent in Gutierrez.
Unanimous for the Young Punisher!@PedroMunhozMMA takes the decision over Chris Gutierrez at #UFCKansasCity 👏 pic.twitter.com/ChmGYA1Xqa
— UFC (@ufc) April 16, 2023
Gutierrez will head back to Factory X eager to hone his skills and come back stronger in his next UFC bout.
Official Result: Pedro Munhoz def. Chris Gutierrez by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
