Chris Avila represents Stockton with impressive win over former UFC champion Anthony Pettis.
In Anaheim on Saturday, the “Last Man Standing” boxing event saw Stockton’s own Chris Avila shine brightly. Avila (6-1) faced off against former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis (1-1) in a six-round bout at 175 pounds, which featured on the main card headlined by Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal.
Despite the odds, Avila emerged victorious through a unanimous decision, with the judges scoring it 58-56, 59-55, and 59-55 in his favor. His relentless, high-volume punching style, reminiscent of the Diaz brothers, proved highly effective. As commentator Sean O’Malley noted during the broadcast, Avila’s strategy included a barrage of arm-punches that kept Pettis at bay.
Chris Avila Defeats Anthony Pettis at Last Man Standing Boxing Event
While Pettis put up a good fight, he struggled to land significant blows. Avila’s hooks repeatedly disrupted Pettis’s rhythm, preventing him from mounting a strong offense. This victory marks Avila’s sixth consecutive win since his loss in his professional boxing debut back in 2014. Along the way, he has also secured wins over MMA figures like Jeremy Stephens and Anthony Taylor.
Anthony Pettis, on the other hand, has been active across various combat sports since leaving the UFC in 2020. Besides boxing, he has competed under the PFL banner and for Karate Combat.
Avila’s triumph not only boosts his boxing career but also showcases 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, you’re up!
