Thrusting Back into Contention: Gilbert Burns' Road to Redemption at UFC 299
Image Credit: MMAnytt
Gilbert Burns has been a great fighter in the welterweight division for many years. He is a fan favourite and is entertaining to watch in the Octagon. He makes his return to action at UFC 299 against Jack Della Maddalena. It looks like an exciting contest. It could have significant future implications for both competitors. Yet, if Burns wins, you can argue that he will thrust himself right back into the title picture.
The Career Of Gilbert Burns
Burns has been a top fighter at 170 for a while now. The Brazilian has competed against the best in the division. He even challenged for the title. He has a professional record of 22-6 with 17 victories and has an exciting style to go along with that. The 37-year-old has tremendous skills on the feet but is also excellent on the ground. Burns has absolute power in his punches and can submit anyone. He's coming off a loss to Belal Muhammad, but it is important to note that he took the fight on short notice. Burns now faces rising star Della Maddalena. If he wins, you can argue he could be back in the title picture.
What Makes Him Special
What makes Burns very special is that he will fight anyone anywhere. The Brazilian has taken fights on short notice and fought people no one wants to fight. A prime example is when he took on the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev and gave him a good run for his money. It shows how good you are when you take the fight on short notice; it tells the fans that you want them to have good fights. Burns has taken a lot of brutal fights in his time in the UFC. Furthermore, the contest at UFC 299 is no different with Della Maddalena. He doesn't shy away from fights. This could be why he might be back in the title conversation if he wins in March.
The Future
Burns mustn't look past Della Maddalena. The Australian is tough outing for anyone. Yet, if he wins, he has some exciting matchups at 170. The first fight that comes to mind is Colby Covington, who is coming off a loss to Leon Edwards. Burns could also face the rising Irish star Ian Garry. Garry will be looking to get to the title after his win against Geoff Neil. Finally, there was a lot of talk about a clash between Burns and Dustin Poirier. Yet, we must see what results both fighters get at UFC 299.
Burns is a great fighter, and we have to treasure him while we can.