Gilbert Burns entered the UFC Winnipeg main event against rising contender Mike Malott with full confidence and no intention of retirement on his mind. After suffering through a four-fight losing streak and nearly a year away from competition, the veteran welterweight had dedicated himself fully to training camp, believing he could return to winning form. However, the fight ended in disappointment as Burns was knocked out in the third round, leading him to leave his gloves in the cage and announce his retirement from professional fighting.
Despite acknowledging before the bout that retirement was always a possibility at this stage of his career, Burns insisted that he stepped into the octagon focused entirely on victory. Speaking after the event, he explained that his mindset was absolute confidence in winning, but also an awareness that if he could no longer perform at his highest level, it would be time to move on. He admitted feeling somewhat “stuck,” suggesting that age and recent struggles had affected his ability to fully express himself in competition, even though his competitive fire remained.
Gilbert Burns Retires Proudly Reflecting On Integrity Challenges And Legacy In UFC Career
Burns emphasized that his decision was not influenced by external pressure or opponents, but rather by his own standards. He stated that he refused to continue fighting just for paychecks and wanted to ensure he was giving 100 percent of himself in every performance. When he felt that level could no longer be consistently reached, he chose to step away from the sport. Even in defeat, he expressed gratitude for the journey and acknowledged that he still had personal challenges he wanted to pursue beyond fighting.
Throughout his UFC career, Burns established himself as one of the most respected and durable fighters in the welterweight division. His résumé includes a title fight against close friend and teammate Kamaru Usman in 2021, as well as a high-profile and intense battle against Khamzat Chimaev, which is widely considered one of the most memorable fights in recent UFC history. These bouts highlighted his willingness to compete against elite opponents regardless of risk or ranking implications.
Burns reflected proudly on his career choices, noting that he often accepted difficult fights rather than protecting his ranking or waiting for more favorable matchups. He explained that he could have declined bouts against dangerous opponents like Chimaev or Stephen Thompson, but chose instead to test himself against the best fighters available. For Burns, proving himself meant never avoiding challenges, even when it may not have been strategically beneficial.
Looking back on his journey, Burns highlighted his long martial arts background, beginning with jiu-jitsu at the age of 12. He went on to become a world champion in 2010 and 2011 before transitioning into mixed martial arts, where he competed at the highest level for years. He credited the sport for shaping his life, both professionally and personally, and allowing him to build financial stability for his family.
Gilbert Burns Reflects On Career Success Family Future Plans After UFC Retirement
Although he never achieved a UFC championship, Burns expressed no regret. He emphasized that his career allowed him to provide for his wife and children, purchase a home, and invest in his future. More importantly, he felt fulfilled by the effort and sacrifices he made throughout his fighting journey. He described himself as content, even if the ultimate goal of becoming champion remained unfulfilled.
Burns concluded his UFC career with a professional record of 22 wins and 10 losses. Moving forward, he plans to remain involved in the sport through MMA management and intends to open a martial arts school in South Florida, where he currently lives. Through coaching and mentorship, he hopes to pass on the lessons he learned during his own career, including those shaped by his final fight in Winnipeg.
Even in retirement, Burns expressed appreciation for the constant learning that came with fighting at the highest level. While the result in his final bout was not what he hoped for, he values the experience and growth the sport provided.
