UFC welterweight standout Gilbert Burns has shown that he is not afraid to face his training partners in the octagon. This was evident when he challenged his Kill Cliff FC teammate, Kamaru Usman, for the welterweight title in February 2021. The lead-up to the fight was intense and at times awkward, but Burns and Usman were able to maintain their friendship even after Usman emerged victorious with a TKO to retain his title.
Burns is set to face Sean Brady in the UFC Fight Night 242 headliner on September 7 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Despite facing his training partners in the octagon, Burns is focused on his goal of getting back into the title picture. He envisions a scenario where he defeats Brady quickly, then goes on to challenge and defeat Usman to reclaim the welterweight title. In his eyes, the competition within his training partners is all business and not personal.
Burns acknowledges that fighting his current and former training partners is inevitable, given that many of them are ranked in the UFC’s top 10 welterweight standings. He emphasizes that these fights are purely professional and do not result in any bad blood. Burns highlights his respect for his training partners, even when they are opponents inside the octagon, such as his relationship with Ian Garry.
While Burns is focused on his upcoming fight with Brady, he has his sights set on a rematch with Usman for the title. He also mentions other potential opponents like Leon Edwards and Colby Covington as significant challenges. Burns prioritizes fights with opponents who are currently ranked ahead of him, viewing these matchups as the biggest fights in his career.
Despite recognizing the tough challenge that Brady poses, Burns acknowledges his opponent’s skills and previous victories against high-level competition. He respects Brady’s abilities but is confident in his matchup against him in the upcoming fight.
Gilbert Burns’ willingness to face his training partners in the octagon showcases his professional approach to the sport. While he values the relationships he has with his fellow fighters, Burns is focused on his ultimate goal of becoming a champion in the welterweight division.