Gilbert Burns said he did not plan to retire after his recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He stated that if he cannot perform at his best again, he is ready to walk away because he will not fight just for a paycheck. Burns revealed he wants to become an MMA manager and believes he would excel at building careers. He expressed interest in helping fighters with jiu-jitsu and mentioned opening a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha. Burns emphasized the gym would focus on changing children's futures, not just teaching martial arts. The post thanks Burns for his career.
Gilbert Burns, the Brazilian welterweight known as "Durinho," has opened up about the possibility of retirement and his plans for life after fighting, signaling that his competitive career may be nearing its end.
Burns, 39, holds a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses at welterweight, where he currently sits ranked 13th in the division. Fighting out of Kill Cliff FC, the five-foot-ten orthodox striker has built a reputation as one of the most well-rounded competitors in the 170-pound class. Over his career he has averaged 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute with 48 percent striking accuracy, while also showing consistent grappling output at 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes — a reflection of his elite jiu-jitsu background.
Speaking in a recent interview, Burns made clear he is not ready to fight simply to collect a paycheck. He said that if he cannot perform at the level he expects of himself, he is prepared to walk away from competition. The door, however, is not fully closed — he did not actively plan to retire following his most recent bout, but acknowledged that retirement is a real possibility.
Beyond the cage, Burns has mapped out a purposeful next chapter. He revealed ambitions to become an MMA manager, expressing confidence that he could help fighters build their careers. He also announced plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, with an emphasis on using martial arts to change the lives of young people in the community rather than simply running a training facility.
Why it matters
- Burns is a ranked welterweight whose potential departure shifts the landscape in a crowded 170-pound division
- His jiu-jitsu expertise and industry experience position him as a credible future manager and coach
- The planned South Florida gym reflects a community-focused mission that extends well beyond combat sports
