Gilbert Burns’ New Career Pits Him Against UFC Brass Hunter Campbell and Sean Shelby

UFC veteran Gilbert Burns reveals his plan to step into a managerial position for young fighters after recently announcing his retirement.

Gilbert Burns’ New Career Pits Him Against UFC Brass Hunter Campbell and Sean Shelby

Gilbert Burns calls out UFC brass (via MMA Mania, Bloody Elbow)

In Short
  • Gilbert Burns is retiring from active competition after a fifth consecutive loss in the UFC.
  • He plans to transition into MMA management, potentially clashing with UFC executives like Hunter Campbell and Sean Shelby.
  • Burns aims to advocate for fighters and address concerns about contract negotiations and decision-making within the UFC.

Gilbert Burns is one of the most respected figures in MMA, largely for his humble and approachable persona throughout his career. The Brazilian veteran built a reputation on professionalism inside the UFC. As he steps away after a fifth straight loss, Burns is shifting toward a new career path in the sport. He has noted this move into fighter management could put him at odds with the top UFC brass.

Burns’s final bout inside the UFC came against Mike Malott at UFC Fight Night in Winnipeg, where he suffered a TKO defeat after being overwhelmed by sustained striking pressure. The loss extended Burns’ losing streak to five straight fights and highlighted a difficult late-career stretch in the division. Following the result, ‘Durinho’ confirmed his retirement from active competition, closing out a long UFC career.

The Brazilian veteran acknowledged his roughly 12-year UFC run featured consistent fights against elite opposition and top contenders, leaving him with no disappointments as he retires. Burns is now leaning toward a managerial path and has indicated he is not afraid of potential friction with UFC executives. He particularly hinted at matchmakers and top brass like Hunter Campbell, Sean Shelby, and Mick Maynard.

The relationship with the UFC and with the fans, I think that’s something I can teach these guys, the younger generation. And I think I will do a good job as a manager as well, and that’s the next thing I want to do in my career. I don’t need to go on social media and throw a lot of shade on the UFC. I think those fights have to happen with Hunter, with Sean Shelby, with Mick Maynard. It’s going to happen.

Gilbert Burns via MMA Junkie

Shelby and Maynard both play key roles in shaping matchups inside the UFC, but one name that stood out from Burns’s comments was Hunter Campbell. The UFC CBO is widely viewed as a potential successor to CEO Dana White due to his influence in business negotiations. However, he has faced scrutiny from veterans and active fighters, with criticism often centered on an overly centralized leadership style.

Campbell has faced criticism over his role in contract negotiations and decision-making inside the UFC. Ronda Rousey has alleged that restrictive contracts pressure fighters into rushed decisions about their careers and futures. Colby Covington has also accused the UFC executive of “icing out” fighters, claiming personal disputes or minor disciplinary issues can affect opportunities and matchmaking paths.

Taken together, these criticisms highlight concern among fighters and fans about decision-making inside the UFC. Issues around contracts reflect skepticism toward how the organization is run. Gilbert Burns’ recent comments reinforce that fighters are increasingly willing to speak on limitations in the system. As ‘Durinho’ moves away from competition, it remains to be seen when he will step into a managerial role.

Gilbert Burns reveals what motivated him to become successful

UFC fighters often come from less privileged backgrounds, balancing tough jobs with early MMA careers while trying to survive financially. Charles Oliveira worked as a food delivery driver early in his journey to support himself while pursuing fighting. Merab Dvalishvili also did construction work during his early UFC career. Gilbert Burns’ story follows the same path of hardship, persistence, and reaching elite competition.

Gilbert Burns retires from MMA
Gilbert Burns retires from MMA (via MMA Mania)

Burns grew up suffering from severe asthmatic bronchitis during childhood. His family also struggled financially and often found it difficult to make ends meet. His father worked as an upholsterer to support the household.

During college, Burns once called his mother asking for money and realized how difficult their situation truly was. He recently described that moment as a catalyst that pushed him to commit to his career.

I needed to pay rent, which was $7–8, and I had bronchitis. So I called my mom to see if she had money for medicine to help me out. When I called her, I talked to her for a long time because I wasn’t going to ask for money right away. Then she asked me if I had money to send her. I said I didn’t have any at the moment, but I would send it to her pretty soon.

Gilbert Burns via his YouTube channel

UFC fighters often credit family support, especially mothers, as a key influence in their careers, shaping their resilience and mindset. A notable example came after Tyron Woodley‘s mom consoled an emotional Kamaru Usman after he defeated her son at UFC 235. Gilbert Burns’ story fits into this broader MMA pattern, where family influence remains a grounding force throughout fighters’ rise to the top.

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