Photo by Buda Mendes/Zuffa LLC
An emotional Gilbert Burns restrains himself during his post-fight callout towards Colby Covington at UFC Brasilia.
Heading into UFC Brasilia on Saturday, Gilbert Burns was expecting a submission victory over Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ace Demian Maia. Instead, he scored a first-round TKO win over the decorated UFC veteran.
During the Octagon interview with Michael Bisping post-fight, an emotional Burns went to express his respect towards the 42-year-old Maia, who is now a fight away from retirement.
“I’ve been following this guy his whole career,” Burns said of Maia. “I have tremendous admiration and respect (for him). I think he’ll be a future Hall-of-Famer. We were talking about training (together) before the fight, I have so much respect.
“I hope Demian gets a big fight, I think him and Anderson Silva (should be next). Just give him that rematch.”
As for his plans moving forward, Burns also mentioned the fight he wants next.
“Colby Covington, you came here, you talked so much sh-t,” a fired up Burns said on the mic. “Now, you’ve got to see me. You’re gonna see me.
“I’m gonna… beat you up. You’re lucky we’re on ESPN. I’m gonna get you.”
Burns is now on a five-fight win streak with a record of 18-3 (with 14 wins by stoppage). He also won a $50,000 bonus for Performance of the Night.