Gilbert Burns has publicly announced his retirement from MMA after a UFC Fight Night main event in Winnipeg in April 2026, ending a long UFC career. He said the fire was still there but he couldn’t continue effectively and left his gloves in the cage, signaling his retirement.[1][3]
Key details
- Event: UFC Fight Night Winnipeg (April 18, 2026) where Burns was defeated by Mike Malott in the third round, leading to his retirement announcement.[3][1]
- Post-fight stance: Burns stated he gave everything, wanted to win, but felt it was time to step away from competition; he also noted plans to pursue other endeavors in MMA, such as coaching or management, and to open a school in south Florida.[1][3]
- Career context: Burns’ run included a 2021 title shot and high-profile bouts with top welterweights; his retirement follows a four- or five-fight skid, depending on the counting method used by outlets.[6][3]
Upcoming impact and what to expect
- He indicated potential post-retirement involvement in MMA, including coaching or mentorship, and potentially a grappling-oriented or management role; there has been speculation about a homecoming or Brazil fight, but nothing concrete confirmed at this moment.[5][6]
- UFC and supporters have acknowledged his contributions; some outlets note he might return for exhibition or non-UFC competition, yet no formal plans have been announced.[8][9]
Illustration
- If you’d like, I can summarize Burns’ career highlights and build a timeline from his title shot in 2021 through his retirement in 2026, with a brief section on his potential post-retirement plans. Would you like that?[9][3]
Sources
- Burns announces retirement after UFC Winnipeg knockout (Sportskeeda)[1]
- Gilbert Burns retires after UFC Winnipeg knockout loss (Boxing News)[3]
- MMA Junkie interview and retirement reflections (MMA Junkie)[7][9]
Sources
Gilbert "Durinho" Burns is a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist in the UFC welterweight division. Get the latest UFC breaking news, fight night results, MMA records and stats, highlights, photos, videos and more.
www.ufc.comAfter his unexpected retirement, Gilbert Burns has outlined his new path forward and revealed how he hopes to make a difference in the sport. UFC Winnipeg marked the organisation’s return to Canada, with Burns facing Mike Malott in the main event.
www.yardbarker.comAfter a loss to Mike Malott, Gilbert Burns announces his retirement. Here’s his story and impact on the sport.
deadspin.comAfter a 25-fight UFC career, Gilbert Burns has finally laid his gloves down for good.
www.sportskeeda.comFans won’t have to wait too long before seeing Gilbert Burns compete again. Burns received praise from the likes of Khamzat Chimaev after making the decision to lay his gloves down inside the Octagon this past weekend.
www.yardbarker.comGilbert Burns hung up his gloves after Mike Malott stopped him in the third round at UFC Winnipeg, ending a four-fight skid and a career defined by facing the b
boxingnews.comGilbert Burns could be tempted to make his UFC return if one opportunity was presented. Last year, Burns said that he felt like he’d fight two more times before calling time on his career at 39 years old.
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