Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports
MMA is much less boring now that Ben Askren is retired, according to UFC welterweight Gilbert Burns.
MMA is kind of boring right now, according to retired UFC welterweight Ben Askren.
With UFC stars Conor McGregor and Jon Jones missing in action, ‘Funky’ made his feelings known about the current state of MMA in a recent Tweet.
MMA is kinda boring right now.
— Bionic Ben (@Benaskren) September 9, 2020
“MMA is kinda boring right now,” Askren posted on Tuesday evening.
Top-ranked welterweight contender Gilbert Burns soon got word of Askren’s Tweet, but ‘Durinho’ had the perfect comeback.
Not now, but every single time you fought! https://t.co/crlAeqfc8e
— GILBERT BURNS DURINHO (@GilbertDurinho) September 9, 2020
“Not now, but every single time you fought!” Burns fired back.
Askren wasn’t exactly known for his exciting fighting style but the former Bellator and ONE welterweight champion participated in two of the most exciting — and memorable — fights in UFC history, earning a spectacular — albeit controversial — come-from-behind win over Robbie Lawler at UFC 235 but suffering a highlight reel knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal UFC 239. Askren retired following his submission loss to Demian Maia at UFC Fight Night 162, which saw the 36-year-old walk away with a $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus.
As for Burns, the Brazilian powerhouse is expected to challenge Kamaru Usman for the welterweight title at UFC 256. The PPV extravaganza is scheduled to take place later this year, Dec. 12 at a to be determined location.