Former UFC title challenger Gilbert Burns opens up about why he is completely happy leaving mixed martial arts behind.
Former UFC welterweight contender Gilbert Burns has officially stepped away from mixed martial arts competition and recently explained his peaceful transition into retirement, according to information published by bjpenn.
Known throughout his career for delivering thrilling performances inside the Octagon, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt earned a championship opportunity against Kamaru Usman before concluding his tenure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
During a recent interview, Burns confessed that watching intense sparring sessions at the gym completely eliminated any lingering desire to return to professional fighting, confirming he is fully satisfied with his decision to hang up the gloves.
Gilbert Burns reflects on MMA sparring and injuries
While preparing for a recent grappling appearance, Gilbert Burns visited the Kill Cliff gym to wrestle and observed intense sparring sessions between athletes. Witnessing fighters absorb heavy body shots, devastating low kicks, and dangerous knees reminded him of the brutal physical toll associated with the sport.
He admitted that watching fighters get dropped in the gym made him realize how much he does not miss absorbing that level of punishment. Seeing his close friend Alexandre Pantoja engage in a grueling war inside the cage further solidified his contentment with retirement.
Why Gilbert Burns is happy with his UFC career
Looking back at his journey in professional sports, Gilbert Burns expressed immense pride in what he achieved under the Ultimate Fighting Championship banner. Having fought for the welterweight title, competed in numerous main event slots, and delivered memorable bouts, he feels his career goals were fully accomplished.
While he admits to missing daily interactions with longtime coaches like Henri Hooft and training partners such as Vicente Luque and Gregory Rodrigues, he has successfully built a new community centered purely on grappling and jiu-jitsu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Gilbert Burns retire from MMA?
Gilbert Burns retired after a storied career in the UFC where he fought for the welterweight championship, explaining that he no longer misses the brutal physical toll of training, sparring, and injuries.
Does Gilbert Burns miss competing in the UFC?
No, Gilbert Burns has made it clear that he does not miss MMA at all, preferring to focus entirely on grappling, wrestling, and training in jiu-jitsu with new friends.
What does Gilbert Burns do now instead of MMA?
Gilbert Burns remains active in the martial arts community by focusing strictly on grappling and wrestling training while enjoying life away from professional mixed martial arts competition.
