Gilbert Burns admitted his loss to Michael Morales in May 2025 left him questioning his future in the sport.
Burns, once a contender in the UFC welterweight division, has built his reputation on durability and elite grappling.
Morales, by contrast, represents a rising force, an undefeated prospect known for his striking power and physicality.
In that context, their clash last year went to the Ecuadorian’s plan, with the 26-year-old securing a first round knockout after overwhelming Burns early.
Gilbert Burns admits Michael Morales fight made him question future
Reflecting on the bout while speaking to MMA Junkie, Burns described the impact of Morales’ power and how it affected him in real time.
“That guy got a lot of power. That guy hit me very hard and I’m like, ‘Oh my God.’ And I tried to get my balance and my balance was off, and I couldn’t do much and he sprinted on me,” he began by saying.
“I just, I had to cover up, you know. And then, after the fight, I was feeling bad until I watched it. When I watched him, that guy hit me hard and then I got a freaking [hematoma] like Joanna [Jedrzejczyk].
“One moment I thought, ‘Man, that sport is not for me anymore. I’m a f—— quitter. I’m done.’ Then, that thing came [the hematoma] and I rewatched the fight, so I said ‘Okay, that guy hit freaking hard.’”
Gilbert Burns looks to respond against Mike Malott after difficult run
Now 39, Burns finds himself at a critical stage in his career. He is currently on a four-fight losing streak, a sharp contrast to his earlier title contention.
He is scheduled to face Mike Malott on 18 April, headlining a UFC Fight Night event in Canada. Malott enters the bout with momentum, having won his last three fights.
For Burns, the match-up represents an opportunity to reset. After doubts following the Morales loss, his focus now shifts to proving he can still compete at the highest level.
Read more: