Chris Avila shocks former UFC champion Anthony Pettis with a decisive point victory

July 7, 2024

Chris Avila represents Stockton with an impressive win over former UFC champion Anthony Pettis.

Stockton’s Chris Avila shined at the Last Man Standing boxing match in Anaheim on Saturday. Avila (6-1) competed in a six-round bout in the 175-pound division against former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis (1-1), who headlined the main card with Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal.

Despite the odds, Avila emerged victorious by unanimous decision, with the judges scoring 58-56, 59-55 and 59-55 in his favor. His relentless, powerful striking style, reminiscent of the Diaz brothers, proved extremely effective. As commentator Sean O’Malley noted during the broadcast, Avila’s strategy included a barrage of arm strikes that kept Pettis at bay.

Chris Avila defeats Anthony Pettis at the Last Man Standing Boxing Event

Although Pettis put up a good fight, he struggled to land decisive strikes. Avila’s hooks kept throwing Pettis off rhythm and preventing him from mounting a strong offensive. This win is Avila’s sixth in a row since losing his professional debut in 2014. Along the way, he also picked up wins over MMA fighters such as Jeremy Stephens and Anthony Taylor.

Anthony Pettis, on the other hand, has been active in various martial arts since leaving the UFC in 2020. In addition to boxing, he competed under the PFL flag and for Karate Combat.

Avila’s triumph not only boosts his boxing career, but also shows the fighting spirit of Stockton. It was a memorable night for his hometown and a testament to his perseverance and unique fighting style. Nate Diaz, your turn!