Chris Gruetzemacher, widely known as “Gritz,” is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
With a career spanning over a decade, Gruetzemacher has built a reputation for his resilience and determination inside the octagon.
This article explores his personal life, career highlights, fight history, and more.
Chris Gruetzemacher‘s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Christopher William Gruetzemacher |
| Nickname | Gritz |
| Date of Birth | June 16, 1986 |
| Age | 38 years |
| Place of Birth | Page, Arizona, USA |
| Height | 5’8″ (172.72 cm) |
| Weight Class | Lightweight (155 lbs / 70.31 kg) |
| College | Thunderbird High School graduate |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Turned Pro | 2008 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $1 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight; UFC payouts range from $12,000 to $48,000 per bout |
| Spouse/Relationship | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @sodapopfuzz |
Early Career
Chris Gruetzemacher began his MMA journey in Arizona in 2008. Early in his career, he competed in regional promotions like Rage in the Cage and Strikeforce, amassing an impressive record of 12–1.
His early success included victories over UFC veterans Roli Delgado and John Gunderson. These wins helped him secure a spot on The Ultimate Fighter Season 22.
Professional Career
Gruetzemacher made his UFC debut on December 11, 2015, at The Ultimate Fighter Finale, where he defeated Abner Lloveras via unanimous decision.
Despite facing setbacks due to injuries and losses to notable opponents like Alexander Hernandez and Davi Ramos, he achieved memorable victories.
One highlight was his TKO win against Joe Lauzon at UFC 223 in April 2018, earning him a Performance of the Night bonus. His fighting style combines Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Muay Thai, honed under elite trainers like Master Kru Paul.
Known for his resilience, Gruetzemacher has secured seven wins by knockout and three by submission throughout his career.
Chris Gruetzemacher‘s Net Worth Details
Chris Gruetzemacher’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025. This includes earnings from fight purses, sponsorships, and bonuses.
Fight Purses
Below is a table summarizing some of Chris Gruetzemacher’s fight purses:
| Event | Opponent | Purse ($) | Win Bonus ($) | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Night: Font vs. Aldo | Claudio Puelles | $12,000 | N/A | 2021 |
| UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Strickland | Rafa Garcia | $6,000 | N/A | 2021 |
| UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Silva | Alexander Hernandez | $48,000 | $48,000 | 2020 |
| UFC 223: Khabib vs. Iaquinta | Joe Lauzon | $12,000 | N/A | 2018 |
Endorsements
Chris Gruetzemacher has partnered with various brands during his career:
- Venum (UFC’s official outfitting partner)
Career Records
Below is a table summarizing some of Chris Gruetzemacher’s notable fights:
| Opponent | Event | Result | Method | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claudio Puelles | UFC Fight Night: Font vs. Aldo | Loss | Submission (Kneebar) | Dec 4, 2021 |
| Rafa Garcia | UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Strickland | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | Jul 31, 2021 |
| Alexander Hernandez | UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Silva | Loss | KO/TKO | Oct 31, 2020 |
| Joe Lauzon | UFC 223 | Win | TKO (Corner Stoppage) | Apr 7, 2018 |
FAQs
1. Where was Chris Gruetzemacher born and what is his family background?
Gruetzemacher was born on June 16, 1986, in Page, Arizona. His mother Julia is from Chile, and his family came to the United States under political asylum. His father, Jim Gruetzemacher, was an Army veteran.
2. When did Gruetzemacher begin his MMA career and what inspired him?
He started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai in 2007 to lose weight and improve fitness. Gruetzemacher turned professional in 2008, inspired by a desire for self-protection and a passion for athletic competition.
3. What is Chris Gruetzemacher’s professional MMA record and UFC tenure?
He holds a professional MMA record of 15 wins and 5 losses. Gruetzemacher competed in the UFC lightweight division from 2015 to 2021, with additional fights in promotions like Strikeforce and WSOF before joining the UFC.
4. What fighting style and gym affiliation define Gruetzemacher’s career?
Gruetzemacher uses an orthodox stance, favoring boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He trains at 2 Knuckle Sports MMA Academy, where he also teaches BJJ classes and emphasizes technical striking.
5. What are Gruetzemacher’s most notable UFC victories and performances?
He secured a memorable TKO win over Joe Lauzon at UFC 223 and earned decision victories over Abner Lloveras and Rafa Garcia. He is known for high-volume striking and relentless forward pressure.
6. How many career wins does Gruetzemacher have by knockout and submission?
Gruetzemacher achieved 7 wins by knockout and 3 by submission, often finishing fights with striking combinations or armbar submissions. He also has 5 decision victories.
7. What does Gruetzemacher’s UFC record say about his resilience in the cage?
He frequently fought to the final bell, earning respect for his durability and heart. Most of his UFC losses came against grappling specialists, yet he also won via corner stoppage and unanimous decisions against experienced veterans.
8. What competitions and shows has Gruetzemacher appeared on?
He competed on The Ultimate Fighter: Team McGregor vs. Team Faber (TUF 22), earning two wins and gaining a UFC contract from his strong series performances.
9. Whom has Gruetzemacher credited as heroes and mentors in his journey?
He credits his mother, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Steve Prefontaine, and his wrestling coach Steve Linscum for inspiration, valuing family, work ethic, and perseverance.
10. What roles has Gruetzemacher held within MMA besides being a fighter?
Beyond competing, Gruetzemacher works as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, focusing on teaching and developing fighters at 2 Knuckle Sports MMA Academy, helping to grow the sport in his community.
