Former title challenger Gilbert Burns is determined to return to winning form as he faces rising welterweight star Sean Brady at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs Brady.
For any fighter, losing is tough, but for Burns, his loss earlier this year to Jack Della Maddalena in Miami became a valuable learning experience.
“The learning process was kind of cool,” Burns said. “It was great until it wasn’t. I made a big mistake, and he capitalized and got a nice finish. It’s the fight game—one little mistake and it’s over. I learned from it, and it was actually easy to accept.”
Now in the main event spotlight again, Burns is seeking his first win since defeating Jorge Masvidal in April. His next challenge comes in the form of another highly-regarded prospect, Sean Brady. Burns, excited for the matchup, embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.
“When they said Sean Brady, I said, let’s do it,” Burns shared. “He’s a tough opponent with great jiu-jitsu. This fight is a great test for me, and it’s exciting for the fans and the promotion.”
Brady, who made his UFC debut in 2019, quickly rose through the ranks with an undefeated streak that included wins over Michael Chiesa and Jake Matthews. However, his unbeaten run ended in 2022 against Belal Muhammad. Brady bounced back by submitting Kelvin Gastelum in December 2023.
In contrast, Burns brings a wealth of experience to the Octagon, having fought top contenders like Demian Maia, Khamzat Chimaev, and Kamaru Usman since his UFC debut in 2014. This experience, Burns believes, will give him the edge over Brady on Saturday night.
“Sean is very good, but I believe I’m just a little better,” Burns said confidently. “I’ve fought the best in the division, and I know how to handle these situations. I’ll defend his takedowns, land my shots, and frustrate him until he breaks.”
While both men are known for their grappling skills, Burns predicts the fight will be decided on the feet.
“I envision knocking him out,” Burns stated. “We’ll grapple, but I believe the fight will be decided by striking. When I connect, I think I’ll shut him down.”
The welterweight division has become even more interesting with new champions in play, and Burns, who lost to Muhammad last year, is eager for another shot at the belt. A victory over Brady could put him back in the conversation for a title fight.
“I’m happy for Muhammad, and I’m excited to see the division moving forward,” Burns said. “It’s a great time to be in the welterweight division, and I hope to meet him again down the line.”
Burns is eager to feel the rush of victory once more and is prepared for whatever happens on Saturday night.
“That adrenaline dump when you win is the best feeling,” Burns said. “I’m confident but not overconfident. It could be a war, but I’m ready. I see myself knocking him out, getting my arm raised, and feeling all those good emotions on Saturday.”
Don’t miss UFC Fight Night: Burns vs Brady, live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas on September 7, 2024. Prelims start at 4pm ET/1pm PT, with the main card live on ESPN+ at 7pm ET/4pm PT.