Gilbert Burns built his identity on the mats long before he ever stepped inside a UFC octagon. After officially announcing his retirement following a loss to Mike Malott in the UFC, the former welterweight contender made it clear that while his MMA career has come to an end, his journey in jiu-jitsu is far from over.
Speaking during his emotional post-bout interview, Burns reflected on how early the sport entered his life and how quickly it shaped his path.
“I remember I started jiu-jitsu at 12 and then got my black belt in 2007, became a world champion in 2010 and 2011,” he said.
Those early achievements, Burns explained, carried directly into his transition to mixed martial arts.
“Even though jiu-jitsu in MMA, I’ve been competing at the highest level,” Burns said, acknowledging how the discipline guided him throughout his long run in the UFC.
Now, with his gloves laid down, Burns emphasized that his connection to jiu-jitsu is not ending, it is simply entering a new phase. Rather than chasing titles, he wants to focus on mentorship and giving back to the next generation of athletes.
“I want to help these guys with jiu-jitsu,” he said. “I never wanted to open up a gym. But then I have a friend of mine, a very close friend of mine, Vagner Rocha, that he’s changing a lot of kids’ lives. That’s what I want to do. He’s not teaching martial arts, but he’s changing those guys’ future.”
Inspired by Rocha’s impact, Burns revealed that plans are already underway for his next chapter outside the cage.
“I’m opening up a new gym soon in South Florida,” he said. “I’m going to become a manager. I’m going to take care of my family, my kids, my wife.”
During his address, Burns expressed gratitude toward the UFC and reflected on the journey that took him from a young jiu-jitsu student to one of the sport’s most respected veterans.
