Gilbert Burns revealed he had not planned to retire after his latest bout but was mentally prepared for that possibility. The veteran welterweight stated he was ready to walk away if he couldn't perform at his best, as he refuses to fight just for paychecks. Burns announced plans to become an MMA manager, believing he knows how to build successful careers. He also intends to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing not just on teaching martial arts but on changing young people's lives. Burns emphasized he never wanted to open a gym before but is now motivated by helping kids create better futures.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about his mindset heading into what could have been the final fight of his career, revealing he was mentally prepared to retire if he could no longer compete at the highest level.
The 39-year-old Brazilian welterweight, known as "Durinho," made clear that the decision to step away was not predetermined but was something he had quietly made peace with. Burns, who competes out of Kill Cliff FC and holds a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses, said he refuses to continue fighting simply to collect a paycheck. If he could not perform at his best, he was ready to walk away.
Burns currently sits ranked 13th in the welterweight division, a long way from the title contention he once threatened. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, he has built his reputation as a well-rounded fighter, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy while also contributing offensively on the mat with 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Beyond the cage, Burns is now looking ahead to the next chapter. He announced plans to transition into MMA management, drawing on his extensive experience to help guide younger fighters through the sport. He also intends to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha. Burns was candid that he never previously had the desire to run a gym, but his motivation now centers on giving young people a path toward better futures rather than simply teaching martial arts technique.
Why it matters
- Burns signals his active fighting career may be winding down, with retirement a genuine consideration
- A move into management and coaching could position him as a significant figure in developing Brazilian and South Florida talent
- His emphasis on athlete welfare over financial incentive reflects a broader conversation about fighter longevity in MMA
