Gilbert Burns has called time on his career, announcing his retirement after a TKO loss to Mike Malott in the main event of UFC Fight Night 273.
The longtime contender left his gloves in the octagon following the defeat, closing a 14-year run in MMA. Burns finished with a 22-10 overall record, including 15-10 in the UFC, and had previously fought for a UFC title.
Reflecting on the decision, Burns said, "I gave everything to the sport," and explained that retirement was already on his mind heading into the bout. "I knew going into this fight, for sure I was very confident, and I put in a lot of work. (But) when I wasn't able to execute the game plan, when I felt he's a little faster, stronger, a little bit this and that, then I was kind of like, 'OK, if I cannot beat Mike Malott.'"
Burns revealed he had considered a different path if he had won. "If we can beat (Malott), yes, we're going to keep on fighting. We're going to call out Colby (Covington). We're going to get a fight on International Fight Week, and then we're going to keep that thing rolling. But if I cannot beat Mike Malott, that's it."
Looking back on his career, Burns said, "No regrets," adding, "It was a good journey. I don't think I would change it much."
