Gilbert Burns confirmed he did not plan to retire after his most recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He stated that if he couldn't perform to his full potential again, he would be ready to walk away rather than just fight for money. Burns revealed plans to become an MMA manager, believing he knows how to build a fighter's career effectively. He also mentioned wanting to help jiu-jitsu athletes and plans to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing on changing children's lives rather than just teaching martial arts. The post concludes with a thank you for his career.
Gilbert Burns has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts, closing the book on a welterweight career that spanned well over a decade and produced wins over some of the best fighters in the world.
Burns, known as "Durinho," confirmed he did not originally plan to retire following his most recent fight, but had mentally prepared himself for the possibility. The 39-year-old Brazilian said he would rather walk away than continue competing simply for a paycheck if he could no longer perform at the level he expects of himself.
The Kill Cliff FC product finishes his career with a record of 22 wins and 10 losses at 170 pounds, where he held the 13th divisional ranking. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, Burns was a technically well-rounded competitor who averaged 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy, while also posing a consistent grappling threat at 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Burns was a ranked welterweight as recently as his final bout, meaning his departure opens movement in the division's top 15
- His jiu-jitsu credentials and career experience position him credibly for a future in fighter management
- The South Florida gym he plans to open with close friend Wagner Rocha signals a commitment to grassroots development, not just elite competition
Beyond the cage, Burns outlined an active post-fighting chapter. He expressed a belief that he understands how to build a fighter's career effectively and intends to work as an MMA manager. He also spoke about his desire to support jiu-jitsu athletes and revealed plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside Rocha, with a stated mission centered on changing children's lives through martial arts rather than purely developing competitive fighters.
Burns closed his announcement by expressing gratitude for his career.
