Former UFC title challenger Gilbert Burns sheds tears as he retires after KO loss

Gilbert Burns called time on his career after falling to defeat in the UFC Winnipeg main event on Saturday night.

The Brazilian icon was dropped and finished with heavy ground and pound in the third round by local fighter Mike Malott.

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It marked Burns’ fifth straight loss and, ultimately, the end of the road for the 39-year-old.

After the result was made official, Burns took off his gloves and laid them down in the centre of the Octagon before announcing his retirement.

“I work so hard. I worked very hard for this fight,” said Burns, who was overcome with emotion.

“I know Mike was going to fight at home. He was going to bring everything.

“I put on a great camp. I left no stone unturned.

“I couldn’t show it. Shout out to Mike Malott. His team did a great job.

“Thank you, Winnipeg, Canada. Shoutout to Sean Selby. Thank you so much, Dana White, Hunter Campbell, Paul Felder, all the team.

“I work so hard. I think that’s it. I had a great career. I fought so hard.

“I want to win so bad. I think that’s it. I fought the best guys in the world, number one pound-for-pound; a lot of guys were former champions. I never say no to a fight.

“I think that’s it. But I’m content. I always tried to challenge myself.”

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Gilbert Burns’ fruitful career

Burns walks away from the sport after 12 years and 25 fights (15-10) in the UFC.

He spent much of his career with MMA’s premier promotion as a top-15-ranked welterweight, and unsuccessfully challenged for the 170lbs belt in 2021 against Kamaru Usman.

Along the way, he recorded notable wins over Demian Maia, Tyron Woodley, Stephen Thompson, and Jorge Masvidal.

At the time of his most recent loss, Burns was ranked No.11 at welterweight.

Malott is therefore expected to break into the top 15 after the biggest win of his career.

“I’m on top of the world right now,” Malott said post-fight.

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“Let’s give it up to one of the greatest legends in the sport … a true MMA legend [in Gilbert Burns].

“I thought that it could be some success with the uppercut. We sharpen every weapon.

“This guy’s got a chin. I’m not going to get arrogant. I’m absolutely elated right now.”

Story of the fight

Malott patiently picked apart Burns with straight shots as the rugged veteran came forward with vicious intent, landing heavy leg kicks and mixing in takedown attempts.

In the second round, Burns briefly sent Malott down to one knee as he continued to batter the Canadian’s lead leg.

However, Malott quickly recovered and took over the fight with well-timed counters and crisp combinations.

Heading into the third frame, Malott decked Burns with a clean right uppercut followed by a left hook.

Burns bravely made his way back to his feet, but he was quickly sent tumbling back down to the canvas by a right hand as Malott rained down punches to close the show.