Gilbert Burns revealed he had not initially planned to retire after his most recent bout but was prepared for that possibility. The welterweight veteran stated he is ready to walk away if he cannot perform at his best, refusing to fight just for paychecks. 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 the lives of young people through martial arts rather than simply teaching techniques. Burns emphasized his desire to make a meaningful impact on the next generation through coaching and mentorship.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about his future in combat sports, revealing he is prepared to retire from MMA competition and is already laying the groundwork for a new chapter in the sport.
Burns, 39, holds a professional record of 22-10 and currently sits ranked 13th in the welterweight division. The Brazilian veteran, who trains out of Kill Cliff FC, built his reputation as one of the more well-rounded fighters in the 170-pound class, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute with 48 percent striking accuracy, while also posing a consistent grappling threat at 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, "Durinho" has long been a recognizable name near the top of a competitive division.
Speaking publicly about his situation, Burns made clear he had not planned retirement heading into his most recent fight but acknowledged he was mentally prepared for that outcome. He stated firmly he has no interest in continuing to compete simply for financial reward, and that if he cannot perform at the level he demands of himself, walking away is something he is willing to do.
Why it matters
- Burns is a ranked welterweight, and his potential exit would reshape the lower end of the top 15 at 170 pounds.
- His transition into management signals a shift from competitor to career builder, adding an experienced voice to the fighter representation landscape.
- The planned South Florida gym, a joint venture with close friend Wagner Rocha, reflects a longer-term commitment to developing fighters from the ground up rather than simply stepping away from the sport entirely.
Burns was direct that his coaching and mentorship ambitions are rooted in changing lives, particularly for young people, through martial arts — a mission he framed as more meaningful to him than technique instruction alone.
