Gilbert Burns revealed he did not plan to retire following his recent fight but was mentally prepared for that possibility. The veteran welterweight stated that if he finds himself unable to perform at his best again, he is ready to walk away from competition rather than simply collecting paychecks. Burns outlined his post-fighting career plans, including becoming an MMA manager where he believes his experience can help build fighters' careers. He also plans to open a gym in South Florida with close friend Wagner Rocha, focusing not just on teaching martial arts but on changing children's lives and futures. Burns emphasized he never wanted to open a gym before but is now committed to this mission of youth development.
Gilbert Burns has opened up about his future in mixed martial arts, revealing he is mentally prepared to retire if he can no longer compete at the level he demands of himself.
The Brazilian welterweight, known as "Durinho," made clear that stepping away from fighting was not part of his immediate plan following his most recent bout, but that the option is very much on the table. Burns stated that rather than continue simply to collect paychecks, he would walk away from competition if he felt he could no longer perform at his best.
Burns, 39, carries a professional record of 22-10 and is currently ranked thirteenth in the welterweight division while competing out of Kill Cliff FC. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, the orthodox fighter has built a reputation as one of the more well-rounded veterans in the 170-pound class, averaging 3.15 significant strikes per minute with 48 percent striking accuracy and 2.12 takedowns per 15 minutes across his career.
Beyond the cage, Burns laid out a clear vision for life after fighting. He plans to transition into MMA management, expressing confidence that his years of experience at the highest level can be put to direct use in helping develop other fighters' careers. He also announced plans to open a gym in South Florida alongside close friend Wagner Rocha.
Why it matters
- Burns is a ranked welterweight at 39, making his retirement timeline a genuine near-term storyline for the 170-pound division
- A shift into management and gym ownership would add an experienced voice to fighter representation
- His youth development mission signals a long-term commitment to the South Florida combat sports community
Burns emphasized that the gym project represents a change of heart — he previously had no desire to run one — but that the goal of changing children's lives and futures has given the endeavor real meaning for him.
