Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Gilbert Burns deals former welterweight champion Tyron Woodley his second straight loss.
After a disappointing and depressing loss to Kamaru Usman in March 2019, Tyron Woodley was looking to get himself back on the win column against Gilbert Burns. Unfortunately for him, it was “Durinho” who ended up getting his hand raised via a dominant unanimous decision win.
What was the high point of the fight?
Burns really showed how much he has improved to become a more well-rounded fighter. He was mixing up his shots well and changing levels at the right time. His takedowns weren’t all successful because of Woodley’s defense, but he was able to take the fight to Woodley and earn the respect of the former welterweight champion.
From his end, Woodley kept trying to find a home for his right hand, but to no avail. Burns had both the smarts and confidence to effectively stand and trade with “The Chosen One.”
Where do both men go from here?
Burns just defeated the former titleholder, and that makes a strong case for himself for the next crack at reigning champion and teammate Kamaru Usman. But if we want to erase all doubts and questions, I’d say a victory over Colby Covington would do just that.
As for Woodley, getting to compete at this level at 38 years of age is still impressive. But I feel like a second title run isn’t on the horizon anymore. The contenders he’ll be up against are younger and seemingly more driven, and it would be a rough and tough climb for him if he does intend to get back to the top.
Watch it now, later, or never?
It was an impressive showing from Burns, who did prove that he is more than just a jiu-jitsu guy. This fight is worth a watch now.
@GilbertDurinho with a flurry of strikes in RD 4! #UFCVegas pic.twitter.com/qBfeAtePL7
— UFC (@ufc) May 31, 2020
First blood drawn by @GilbertDurinho, knocking down Tyron Woodley #UFCVegas pic.twitter.com/Ezov4wym99
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) May 31, 2020
Complete domination by @GilbertDurinho #UFCVegas pic.twitter.com/z3R34AdNoj
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) May 31, 2020