Gilbert Burns revealed he did not plan to retire after his most recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He stated that if he cannot perform at his best again, he is ready to walk away because he does not want to fight just for money. Burns announced his intention to become an MMA manager, expressing confidence in his ability to build fighters' careers. He also plans to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing on changing children's lives through martial arts rather than simply teaching technique. Burns emphasized his desire to make a meaningful impact on young people's futures.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about his future in and out of the sport, revealing he is prepared to retire if he can no longer compete at the level he expects of himself, while also laying out concrete plans for life after fighting.
Burns, 39, competes at welterweight and currently holds the 13th spot in the divisional rankings. The Brazilian carries a professional record of 22-10 and has spent his career training out of Kill Cliff FC. Known by the nickname "Durinho," the orthodox fighter stands five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach and has built a reputation as a well-rounded threat, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy, while also posting 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes throughout his career.
Speaking publicly, Burns was clear that retirement was not the plan heading into his most recent fight, but he acknowledged that the possibility was on the table. He stressed that he has no interest in continuing simply to collect a paycheck — if the performances are not there, he is ready to walk away on his own terms.
Beyond the cage, Burns outlined two significant ventures. He intends to move into MMA management, expressing confidence that his experience as a fighter gives him a strong foundation to help develop other athletes' careers. He also plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, with the project aimed at working with children and using martial arts as a vehicle for broader personal development rather than technique alone.
Why it matters
- Burns at 39 with a 22-10 record is at a natural career crossroads, and his candid framing suggests an end may be approaching
- A move into management could keep a seasoned welterweight voice active in shaping the next generation of fighters
- The South Florida gym project signals a long-term community commitment beyond the sport itself
