On the morning of their bout, Gilbert Burns was subjected to severe undervaluation. Despite the fact that Brazilian entered the fight as the #2-ranked welterweight challenger, and Khamzat as 11th, Chimaev was a prohibitive favorite by the bookmakers.
Those who are more familiar with MMA and Gilbert Burns were aware that Chimaev would have a difficult time. “Durinho” is well-versed in all aspects of MMA, and he’s also quite powerful. The Brazilian finally lived up to the hopes of those who believed he would put up the toughest fight of his career thus far.
Burns lost by a 29-28 score from the judges, and on all three referee cards, the result was 29-28 (2-1 in rounds for Chimaev). Burns dropped to fourth place in the challenger standings, while Chimaev moved up to third.
Despite losing, the 35-year-old Brazilian affirmed that his goal remains the same: to win the title. “Durinho” thinks he is still among the best and it is hard to disagree. He will have to work his way back up through three powerful guys as Usman, Covington, and Chimaev are in front of him at the moment. “Durinho” hopes for a chance to avenge his last defeat.
” I don’t think we’re done. I truly believe we are not done (he and Chimaev). Clearly he is advancing in the standings and they (UFC) want that to match him and Colby Covington. But I am not afraid of anyone in this category. I have proven this many times. I ask Khamzat for only one thing, and that is politeness. I was second-ranked and agreed to fight an 11-ranked fighter. I want a rematch with Khamzat. If he beats Colby, he will fight Kamaru, and I want a rematch through his next three fights. I don’t think we’re done until one guy comes to victory by a break. This fight was supposed to be in five rounds, ” Burns told TSN.
The Brazilian reportedly even pushed the idea to hold the fight for five rounds, but UFC leaders rejected the idea because they already had two title fights as part of the UFC 273 event. As for Burns’ comments, Chimaev was quick to respond.
”In five rounds, I’d take your soul. See you soon, boy” Chimaev wrote on Instagram.
It’s very probable that the paths of the two great runners will cross once more in the future, but Chimaev now faces new obstacles and must continue down his path to the top. As for Burns, fighting someone as formidable as Jorge Masvidal appears like a smart option for his next fight.
