UFC Winnipeg marked what appears to be the final chapter in Gilbert Burns’ career. The Brazilian welterweight faced Canada’s Mike Malott in the main event but was unable to snap a four-fight losing streak. Malott thrilled the home crowd with a third-round knockout victory, after which Burns announced he was stepping away from the sport for good.

Ironically, Burns’ last win came against Jorge Masvidal—a fight that effectively ended Masvidal’s career. Now, three years later, the 39-year-old finds himself in a similar position. Speaking in the cage after the bout, Burns took the microphone and made his future clear, signaling the end of a long and respected run in MMA.

“I think that’s it,” Burns said. “I had a great career. I fought so hard. I wanted to win so bad.

I fought the best guys in the world, pound-for-pound, a lot of champions. I never said no to a fight. I’m content.” While people seemed okay with his retirement, an X post from Home of Fight appears to have changed that narrative.

BREAKING: Gilbert Burns announces his retirement from MMA: “I worked so hard. I think that’s it. But I am content.” Gilbert turns 40 in a couple of months.

Happy retirement legend pic.twitter.com/zZ7MwWjta8 — Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 19, 2026 “BREAKING: Gilbert Burns announces his retirement from MMA… Gilbert turns 40 in a couple of months. Happy retirement legend ,” they wrote. It appears fans didn’t completely agree with Burns being labeled a legend. Gilbert Burns being labeled a ‘legend’ is viewed as ‘blasphemy’ People quickly jumped at