Gilbert Burns, a former UFC star and a third-degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, is making waves in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with his new venture into the UFC's BJJ offshoot. In an exclusive interview, Burns shared his thoughts on the potential matchups and the future of this exciting new division.
Burns, who recently retired from MMA after a 14-year career, is now focusing on his new role as an MMA manager and his passion for Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He believes that the UFC BJJ platform offers a unique opportunity to showcase his skills and compete against some of the greatest grapplers in the sport.
When asked about the fighters he would like to see in the UFC BJJ arena, Burns named several notable veterans who he thinks would bring excitement and high-level competition. He mentioned Anthony Pettis, Demian Maia, Dustin Poirier, and Nate Diaz as potential opponents, praising their grappling abilities and entertainment value.
However, Burns is also open to the idea of competing for the title. He stated that he would take the opportunity to fight for the championship if it presented itself, but his primary interest lies in the big fights. He wants to showcase the skills of former champions and legends like Ben Henderson and RDA, who still possess exceptional jiu-jitsu abilities.
The 39-year-old fighter's enthusiasm for this new venture is evident, as he sees it as a way to keep the competitive spirit alive and provide fans with thrilling matchups. Burns' decision to enter the UFC BJJ scene is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in MMA.
In my opinion, Burns' move to UFC BJJ is a strategic one, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience and reputation in the sport. By competing against top-tier grapplers, he can not only entertain fans but also potentially establish himself as a legend in the BJJ community. This new platform offers a fresh challenge and an opportunity to inspire a new generation of MMA enthusiasts.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for cross-discipline rivalries and the creation of a new competitive ecosystem. Burns' inclusion of former MMA champions in his desired matchups highlights the blurred lines between different aspects of the sport. It raises a deeper question: How will the UFC BJJ division evolve, and what impact will it have on the overall MMA landscape?
As Burns embarks on this new journey, fans can expect thrilling matches and a fresh perspective on the art of grappling. His involvement in the UFC BJJ offshoot is a testament to the endless possibilities within the world of MMA, where athletes can continuously reinvent themselves and captivate audiences with their skills and determination.
