Gilbert Burns stated he did not plan to retire after his recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He indicated he would be willing to walk away if he cannot perform at his best, as he does not want to fight just for a paycheck. Burns expressed interest in becoming an MMA manager, believing he knows how to build successful careers. He also announced plans to open a gym in South Florida with his close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing on changing the lives of young people rather than just teaching martial arts. The post suggests Burns is seriously considering his post-fighting future.
Gilbert Burns says he is open to retiring from mixed martial arts, but the Brazilian welterweight is already mapping out what comes next — from managing fighters to opening a gym in South Florida.
Burns, known as "Durinho," stated he had not planned to step away following his most recent fight but acknowledged the possibility of retirement if his performances decline. The 39-year-old made clear he has no interest in continuing simply to collect a paycheck, and that he would be willing to walk away the moment he feels he can no longer compete at his best.
The Kill Cliff FC fighter carries a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses in the welterweight division, where he currently sits ranked 13th. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, Burns built his reputation as a well-rounded threat — averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy, while also posing a consistent grappling danger with 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes across his career.
Beyond the cage, Burns expressed genuine enthusiasm for a future in MMA management, saying he believes his experience gives him the knowledge to help build successful careers for younger fighters. He also announced plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, framing the project less as a business venture and more as a community effort aimed at changing the lives of young people.
Why it matters
- Burns is a former title contender and long-time top-15 welterweight, making any transition signal meaningful for the 170-pound division's landscape
- His move into management could give him influence over the next generation of Brazilian fighters
- The gym project reflects a broader mission beyond competition, centered on youth development in South Florida
