Gilbert Burns enters UFC Winnipeg under pressure after a four-fight losing streak, with his bout against Mike Mallot this Saturday carrying significant weight.
At 39 years old, and turning 40 in July, Burns is approaching the latter stages of his time in the sport, and another defeat could mark his UFC retirement.
Despite that, the former title contender has adapted his approach in training camp, looking beyond MMA to maintain his level. That mindset has led him to draw inspiration from unexpected sources.
Gilbert Burns cites Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio as inspiration
Burns revealed that Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio has become a reference point as he prepares for his return, highlighting longevity at the highest level.
Speaking to Ag. Fight, the Brazilian fighter said: “I had a very honest conversation with the team and it was good – we put a strategy together. I’m 39, turning 40 in July, so we’ve had to adapt training a lot. You can’t train like a madman anymore, like I used to. My recovery isn’t what it was.
“These days I look more at the older guys. Cub Swanson had a great fight. Do you think he trained the same way he used to? He didn’t. Glover Teixeira, towards the end, wasn’t training like he once did either.
“It’s the same in football – there’s the goalkeeper at Fluminense [Fabio]. He’s 45 and still playing brilliantly, but [his training] is adapted.”
Fabio’s longevity sets benchmark across sports
Fabio is one of Brazil’s most accomplished goalkeepers, with a career spanning nearly three decades.
He has won 23 trophies and holds the record for most official appearances in football history, with over 1,400 matches played.
Even at 45, he remains Fluminense’s first-choice goalkeeper, maintaining a high level of performance.
