Gilbert Burns stated he did not plan to retire immediately after his most recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He explained that if he cannot perform at his best level, he is ready to walk away because he refuses to fight just for a paycheck. Burns revealed his post-fighting career plans include becoming an MMA manager, believing he knows how to build successful careers. He also wants to help children through jiu-jitsu, working with close friend Wagner Rocha who is already changing kids' lives. Burns plans to open a gym in South Florida focused not just on teaching martial arts but on changing children's futures.
Gilbert Burns has made clear he is not walking away from MMA just yet, but the 39-year-old welterweight says retirement is on the table the moment his performances no longer meet his own standards.
Burns, known as "Durinho," told interviewers that following his most recent fight he had no immediate plans to hang up his gloves. However, he was direct about the conditions under which he would step away — if he can no longer perform at his best, he refuses to continue competing simply to collect a paycheck.
The Brazilian standout carries a 22-10 record and is currently ranked 13th in the welterweight division while competing out of Kill Cliff FC. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, Burns has built his career on a well-rounded game, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy, while also contributing on the mat with 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Beyond his fighting future, Burns has laid out a clear vision for life after competition. He plans to transition into MMA management, expressing confidence that his experience gives him the knowledge to guide fighters and help build successful careers.
Burns also spoke about a community-driven ambition close to his heart. He intends to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, with a mission that goes beyond martial arts instruction. The project is aimed at using jiu-jitsu to create meaningful change in children's lives, following a model Rocha is already putting into practice.
Why it matters
- Burns remains an active ranked welterweight at 39, making his performance standards a genuine near-term factor in the division
- A shift into MMA management from a fighter of his experience could carry real weight in the sport's business landscape
- His community gym project reflects a growing trend of fighters investing in youth development through martial arts
