Gilbert Burns revealed he did not plan to retire immediately after his recent fight but acknowledged he was prepared for that possibility. Burns stated that if he cannot demonstrate his full abilities in competition again, he is ready to walk away from fighting because he refuses to continue just for a paycheck. The veteran fighter outlined his post-fighting career plans, expressing interest in becoming an MMA manager and believing he has the knowledge to build fighters' careers successfully. He also mentioned plans to help young grapplers in jiu-jitsu and intends to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing on changing children's futures rather than simply teaching martial arts. Burns emphasized his desire to make a meaningful impact on young people's lives through this venture.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about his future in MMA, revealing that retirement is a real possibility if he can no longer perform at the standard he holds himself to.
Burns, 39, made clear that stepping away from the sport was not his immediate plan following his most recent bout, but he acknowledged he was fully prepared to walk away should that moment arrive. The Brazilian welterweight said he refuses to continue fighting simply to collect a paycheck, drawing a firm line between competing with purpose and going through the motions.
The Kill Cliff FC veteran carries a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses at 170 pounds, where he currently holds the 13th-ranked spot in the welterweight division. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, Burns has built a reputation as one of the more complete fighters in the weight class over the course of his career, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy while also contributing consistently on the ground with 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Burns is a ranked welterweight whose next move carries direct divisional implications at 170 pounds
- His blend of grappling and striking has made him a measuring stick for top contenders throughout his career
- A retirement would remove one of the division's more experienced veterans from the rankings picture
Beyond the cage, Burns laid out an ambitious second chapter. He expressed genuine interest in transitioning into MMA management, believing his experience gives him the tools to guide younger fighters through their careers. He also outlined plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, with an emphasis on using martial arts to change the trajectories of young people's lives rather than simply teaching technique.
