Gilbert Burns isn’t stepping away from competition for long.
Just days after announcing his retirement from professional MMA, Burns confirmed that he’ll be returning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – going back to the sport where his career first began.
Before entering the UFC, Burns had already built an elite grappling resume, winning world titles in both gi and no-gi and earning a bronze medal at ADCC 2015.
However, as his MMA career took off, his time on the mats became more limited, with only occasional superfight appearances in recent years.
His last notable outing came at BJJ Stars 7 in 2021.
Now, with MMA behind him, Burns is shifting his focus fully back to grappling – and he’s already set his sights on a major goal.
Here is what he had to say on the topic:
There’s a huge championship from IBJJF, which is the International Confederation, International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, IBJJF.
There’s the Masters World Championship, it’s always there in August. I’m sure I’m going to compete.
I want to be a world champion in Jiu-Jitsu in the Masters.It’s not easy, so I’m going to have to train a lot.
That decision signals more than just a one-time return.
Burns made it clear that he plans to stay active and adjust his training accordingly:
I’m going to be active. I like Jiu-Jitsu. I want to compete in Jiu-Jitsu…
I’m going to stop doing sparring. I’m not going to do sparring anymore.But wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, I’m going to do it.
While the IBJJF Masters World Championship is his immediate focus, Burns is leaving the door open for other opportunities as well:
I’m going to compete again, for sure. I’m not wearing a kimono.
Let’s see when the next competition is going to be. But I’ll be active in Jiu-Jitsu soon.
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