Chris Gutierrez Reflects on Journey Ahead of UFC Kansas City Fight

Kansas City, Missouri – Chris Gutierrez, a 34-year-old featherweight fighter, is excited to step into the Octagon this Saturday for a bout against John Castaneda at UFC Kansas City. Originally scheduled for March 8, the fight was postponed due to Castaneda’s illness, who stepped in as a replacement for Gutierrez’s initial opponent, Jean Matsumoto.

“I’ve honestly just been trying to focus on the things that I can control, and that’s attitude, gratitude, and effort,” Gutierrez said in anticipation of the fight. The athlete’s experience has taught him to handle the unpredictable nature of the sport. In his last fight, he faced a similar situation, where opponent Javid Basharat had to withdraw on short notice.

Gutierrez noted that maturity plays a crucial role in managing frustrations that come with unexpected changes. “Ten years ago, similar situations happened to me. But I think I’m able to handle it a little better this time around,” he explained.

Reflecting on his past, Gutierrez recalled a time when he was juggling training and working a security job. He had given his boss eight months’ notice to take time off for Christmas, but was denied a week before his leave. “If you want to decide your own fate, working here is not going to do it for you,” his boss told him. Gutierrez took that as a sign to quit and pursue his dreams of fighting.

“I remember saying, I’ll never let anyone or any situation dictate who I am and what I’m supposed to do,” Gutierrez said. This decision marked a pivotal moment in his career. Since then, he has competed in 13 fights for the UFC and established himself as a top bantamweight fighter.

Now, as he prepares for the fight on Saturday in front of a packed T-Mobile Center, he wants to honor his journey. “It’s not easy to get to where you want to be because some of the people closest to you will tear you down,” he shared. “That’s why I always say I have childlike faith.”

Highlighting the excitement of fighting live, he said, “Fighting in front of a crowd is always exhilarating. It adds to the beauty of the moment, and while it’s nerve-wracking, it’s what we do.”

On his old boss, Gutierrez eventually ran into him again, where he humorously revealed his success: “I’m actually in the UFC now.” Gutierrez laughed, recalling his former boss’s surprised reaction.

“I left everything behind me, I started running forward, and I haven’t looked back. That’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” he concluded.