The difference between the latest two UFC releases is staggering, if completely coincidental.
On Tuesday, UFC Roster Watch noted two removals from the UFC’s roster: veteran Pedro Munhoz, and up-and-comer Shem Rock.
Munhoz (20-10, 2NC) had a full 22 fights inside the UFC octagon. Lightweight Rock (12-3-1) competed just twice from the promotion, a full 20 fights separating the pair.
Of course, going 0-2 to start your UFC tenure is a great way to get released quick, especially if you’re not in barnburners or earning Fight of the Night. Rock, who acquitted himself well in Oktagon MMA, lost a pair of one-sided decisions to Nurullo Aliev and Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady in his brief UFC stint, spelling an end to his time in the company.
The Liverpool native had not lost in four years prior to joining the UFC last November.
“The Young Punisher” Munhoz, at 39, might want to consider changing his nickname to just “The Punisher.” Still, the Brazilian competed with some of the best the UFC had to offer at 135lbs, including Sean O’Malley, Chito Vera, Dominick Cruz, Jose Aldo, Frankie Edgar, Cody Garbrandt, Rob Font, John Dodson, and others. Munhoz went 10-10, 2NC in a UFC career dating back to 2014, but lost his third consecutive fight in November 2024 and has not competed since.
Munhoz had previously requested his release from the promotion (h/t MMA Mania). In a since-deleted post on social media, Munhoz wrote that “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.”
“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.”
