Something about this one seemed definitive. It wasn’t just another loss or another young contender emerging; it was something different. Gilbert Burns, formerly seen as a constant threat in the welterweight division, entered the Octagon at UFC Vegas 106 with something to prove. But what happened was more than just a defeat; it appeared to be a torch being forcefully passed. And for many viewers, including former UFC fighter Josh Thomson, it meant more than just the end of a fight. It seemed like the end of an era.
Michael Morales didn’t just beat Burns; he demolished him. In less than four minutes, the undefeated 25-year-old handed Burns his fourth consecutive loss. Morales never allowed Burns time to breathe, let alone grapple. The many uppercuts, the pressure against the cage, and the ease with which he stuffed takedown attempts—it wasn’t simply a physical mismatch but a generational one. That is exactly what Thomson witnessed from the minute the bell rang.
“You’re coming at that age—38 years old, 39 years old—as you get into those lighter weight classes… It’s just so hard, man,” Thomson stated on the Weighing In podcast. “It’s really hard to kind of keep pace with the young guys. Just the explosiveness, the speed. And these young guys—I mean, you saw it tonight.” His statements were not loaded with disrespect. They arrived from a place of painful understanding. He had been there, too.
Thomson also identified a deeper flaw with Burns’ current approach. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt deviated from his grappling background, and it cost him. His takedowns of Morales lacked the ferocity and certainty he once possessed. Even when ‘Durinho’ managed to get the bout to the ground, he lacked control and composure. It was a clear indication of how age and wear had influenced his performance, both emotionally and physically.
Burns’ resume speaks for itself, having fought alongside elite fighters such as Usman, Chimaev, and JDM. But even the strongest chin and the greatest heart cannot outrun time. “So that being said,” Thomson added, “I think tonight was kind of—I don’t want to say nail in the coffin—but for him, it was maybe headed toward the closure that he needed.” It’s a heavy sentiment, and one that’s difficult to dismiss after such a crushing defeat.
UFC Fight Night – Burns vs Morales LAS VEGAS, NV – MAY 17: Gilbert Burns and Michael Morales step in the octagon for a 5-round main event bout at UFC Apex for UFC Fight Night – Burns vs Morales on May 17, 2025 in Las Vegas, NV, United States. Photo by Louis Grasse/PxImages Las Vegas, NV UFC Apex LAS VEGAS, NV United States Copyright: xLouisxGrassex
And now the question arises: why keep going? Is it for money? Is it for pride? Is it about knowing when to walk away? Thomson cited fighters like Jim Miller, who are open about riding the sport until the wheels come off. Even then, he wonders if that’s the path ‘Durinho’ actually wants.
“I’m not sure if that’s what Gilbert Burns is looking to do. But if it is, then hey, more power to him.” In other words, the option is his—but the writing on the wall has just become much clearer. But now that we know how the MMA world feels about this defeat, what about Burns? How did he react to it?
Gilbert Burns breaks silence on massive defeat
Following a surge of concern and contemplation in the MMA community, all eyes turned to Gilbert Burns. Will he rage against the tide? Announce his retirement? Or sit quietly in the background, allowing others to write his ending for him? Instead, ‘Durinho’ used a new approach—one that did not scream anguish or hint of resentment. After being demolished by Michael Morales, he showed grace, appreciation, and something else that stuck out: peace.
“Thankful for this journey! I’m still super blessed,” Burns posted on Instagram. “Of course wasn’t the outcome I was looking forward to, especially for this one I worked extremely hard, who saw, saw, but it’s the fight game, and it’s life!” That was not the voice of denial. That was acceptance.
Acceptance that no amount of preparation will ensure survival in such a brutal sport. He didn’t make excuses or try to avoid the defeat; instead, he faced it head-on and praised the individual who gave it to him. “Congrats to @miichaelufc, wishing you and your team all the success!”
What followed was maybe the most telling line of all. “That is it—no sad stories! Grateful for this beautiful journey and for all the lessons! God is good all the time! All honors, praise, and glory are given to him in a win or defeat!” No sad stories. That’s a man protecting his legacy, refusing to let pity taint it.
Refusing to allow a terrible first-round TKO to define a career marked by wars, grief, and highlight reels. Burns did not sound broken, regardless of whether he fought again. He sounded free. But what do you think? Will he be calling it quits soon? Let us know in the comments.
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