Gilbert Burns revealed he hadn't planned to retire after his recent fight but was prepared for that possibility. He stated that if he can't perform at his full level again, he's ready to walk away because he doesn't want to fight just for paychecks. Burns outlined post-fighting career plans including becoming an MMA manager, believing he knows how to build fighters' careers effectively. He wants to help Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners and plans to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha. His focus will be on changing kids' futures rather than just teaching martial arts.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about the possibility of walking away from professional mixed martial arts, saying he is prepared to retire if he can no longer perform at his best.
Burns, known by his nickname Durinho, competes in the welterweight division and currently sits ranked thirteenth in the UFC standings. The 39-year-old Brazilian, who trains out of Kill Cliff FC, carries a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, he has built his reputation as a technically diverse fighter, averaging 3.15 significant strikes landed per minute with a 48 percent striking accuracy, while also contributing meaningful grappling pressure at 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes.
In a candid interview, Burns made clear that his recent fight did not prompt an immediate retirement decision, but that he had mentally prepared himself for that outcome. He stated plainly that fighting solely for a paycheck is not something he is willing to do, and that a drop in his ability to perform at a high level would be enough reason to step away.
Beyond competing, Burns shared detailed plans for life after the cage. He intends to become an MMA manager, drawing on his experience to help guide fighters' careers. Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners are a particular focus, and he expressed confidence in his understanding of how to develop and position athletes in the sport.
Why it matters
- A ranked welterweight at 39, Burns represents a critical juncture where performance and longevity intersect for veteran fighters.
- His planned gym in South Florida, to be opened alongside close friend Wagner Rocha, signals a broader commitment to community impact rather than just athlete development.
- Burns framing retirement around performance rather than age or losses reflects a clear-eyed self-assessment that could influence how long he remains in the divisional rankings picture.
