Gilbert Burns’ journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to becoming a world-class MMA fighter is a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience
Despite facing numerous challenges, both inside and outside the octagon, Burns has remained focused on his goals, continually pushing himself to reach new heights in his career.
As he continues to pursue his dream of becoming a UFC champion, Burns’ story serves as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude, anything is possible.
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Table of Contents
Gilbert Burns: Bio
- Gilbert Burns, famously known as “Durinho” in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), was born on July 20, 1986, in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.1
- Raised in a family that struggled with financial hardship, Burns’ early years were marked by perseverance and determination to overcome the odds.
- His father, Herbert T. Burns, operated a car garage, while his mother, Tania Burns, played a crucial role in raising Gilbert and his siblings.
- Despite the family’s difficult financial situation, Burns’ father found a unique way to introduce him to martial arts. When Gilbert was still a young boy, his father struck a deal with one of his customers to exchange car washing services for three months of jiu-jitsu lessons.
- This arrangement proved pivotal, setting Burns on the path that would shape his life and career. From a young age, Burns demonstrated immense potential in combat sports, with a natural aptitude for grappling that would later catapult him to global recognition.
- However, Burns’ childhood was not without challenges. At just six months old, he was diagnosed with a pulmonary disease that required frequent hospital visits for adrenaline vaccines.
- To help improve his lung capacity and overall health, his parents enrolled him in swimming lessons. These lessons not only improved his condition but also helped him build resilience and discipline—qualities that would later serve him well in his fighting career.
Just made weight on my way to the Apex let’s go!
— GILBERT BURNS DURINHO (@GilbertDurinho) September 6, 2024
The Beginnings of a Grappling Champion
Burns’ early exposure to Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) proved to be a game-changer for his future. He quickly became passionate about the sport, dedicating hours to mastering the art of grappling.
His talent and hard work soon paid off when he began participating in competitions. In 2009, he claimed the silver medal at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, marking the beginning of his rise to prominence in the jiu-jitsu world.
But Burns wasn’t satisfied with being second best. Two years later, in 2011, he reached the pinnacle of the sport by winning the World Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championship, one of the most prestigious events in the BJJ community.
This victory solidified his reputation as one of the top grapplers in the world, earning him the respect of his peers and opening doors for him to pursue an even greater challenge—transitioning to MMA.
Gilbert Burns: Career
- After establishing himself as a world-class jiu-jitsu practitioner, Burns made the transition to MMA in 2012.2
- His debut fight took place under the banner of the prestigious MMA promotion, UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), where he showcased not only his grappling prowess but also his striking ability.
- Burns quickly gained a reputation for being a well-rounded fighter, capable of submitting opponents on the ground or defeating them with powerful strikes.
- Burns’ early career in the UFC was marked by notable victories, as he secured wins against tough opponents. His aggressive fighting style and relentless pressure inside the octagon made him a fan favorite.
- In 2014, he secured his first UFC submission victory, defeating Christos Giagos with an armbar in the first round. This victory earned him a Performance of the Night bonus, further establishing him as a rising star in the lightweight division.
- As Burns continued to climb the ranks, he faced tougher competition. His ability to adapt and improve with each fight set him apart from other fighters in the division.
- Burns’ commitment to evolving his skills and expanding his striking game allowed him to become a more versatile fighter, capable of standing toe-to-toe with some of the best strikers in the UFC.
Challenges and Setbacks in the UFC
Like any fighter, Burns faced challenges and setbacks throughout his UFC career. Despite his success, he experienced a few tough losses, which tested his resolve and determination to continue pushing forward.
These losses were often against elite-level competition, such as when he faced off against fighters like Rashid Magomedov and Dan Hooker. However, Burns used these experiences as learning opportunities, refining his skills and addressing any weaknesses in his game.
One of the most pivotal moments in Burns’ career came when he decided to move up to the welterweight division. The change in weight class allowed Burns to fight at his natural weight, which led to improved performances and a renewed sense of energy. His decision to move to welterweight would ultimately prove to be one of the best choices of his career.
Resurgence in the Welterweight Division
After moving up to welterweight in 2019, Burns experienced a career resurgence. He went on an impressive winning streak, defeating some of the top fighters in the division.
Burns showcased his well-rounded skill set by combining his elite grappling with powerful striking, making him a formidable opponent for anyone in the welterweight division.
One of the most significant victories during this period came when Burns defeated former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley in 2020.
Burns dominated the fight from start to finish, earning a unanimous decision victory and catapulting himself into title contention. His performance against Woodley was a statement to the rest of the division, as he solidified his position as one of the top contenders for the welterweight title.
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Gilbert Burns: Net Worth in 2024
Gilbert Burns’ hard work and perseverance have not only earned him respect in the MMA world but also financial success.3
In 2024, Burns boasts a net worth estimated to be around $1.83 million, a significant achievement for someone who grew up facing financial struggles.
His earnings come from a variety of sources, primarily from his UFC fight purses and performance bonuses. Burns is known for delivering thrilling performances inside the octagon, which has earned him multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses throughout his UFC career.
These bonuses, coupled with his fight purses, have contributed to his growing wealth.
In addition to his UFC earnings, Burns has also secured sponsorship deals with various brands, further boosting his income. Sponsors are drawn to his relentless fighting style and likable personality, making him a marketable athlete both inside and outside the octagon.
Sponsorship Deals and Endorsements
Like many top-tier UFC fighters, Gilbert Burns has attracted several sponsors over the course of his career. As of 2024, Burns has endorsement deals with well-known sports and lifestyle brands, including Venum, the official outfitter of the UFC, and other companies that cater to fitness and MMA enthusiasts.
These sponsorships provide Burns with a steady stream of income outside of his fight purses, helping him build financial security for himself and his family. Additionally, Burns’ social media presence, where he engages with fans and promotes his sponsors, adds to his marketability and earning potential.
Burns’ Investments and Business Ventures
In recent years, Burns has also begun exploring opportunities outside of fighting, investing in business ventures to secure his financial future. Many UFC fighters, aware of the physical toll that fighting takes on their bodies, look to diversify their income streams, and Burns is no different.
Burns has expressed interest in launching his own line of fitness products and training programs, capitalizing on his reputation as a world-class athlete and martial artist. He has also shown interest in coaching and helping train the next generation of MMA fighters, a venture that could provide both financial rewards and personal fulfillment.
Giving Back: Burns’ Philanthropic Efforts
Despite his success, Burns has not forgotten his humble beginnings. He remains connected to his roots in Brazil and has been involved in various charitable efforts to give back to his community.
Burns frequently donates to causes that support underprivileged children and provides opportunities for young athletes to pursue martial arts training, just as he did.
Burns’ philanthropic work is a testament to his character and his desire to use his platform for good. He understands the importance of giving back, especially to those who may face the same financial difficulties he once did.
Gilbert Burns: Wife Bruna Burns
Outside of the octagon, Burns is a dedicated family man. He is married to his longtime partner, Bruna Burns, and the couple has two sons.
Burns often speaks about the importance of family and how they serve as his motivation to continue pushing forward in his career.
Throughout his MMA journey, Burns has earned the respect of his peers and fans alike for his humble demeanor, work ethic, and determination to overcome adversity.
He has proven that no matter the obstacles, it is possible to rise to the top through hard work and perseverance. Burns’ legacy as one of the top welterweights in the world is secure, and his journey continues to inspire aspiring fighters across the globe.
What’s Next for Gilbert Burns?
With his competitive spirit and strong work ethic, Gilbert Burns shows no signs of slowing down. Although his loss to Belal Muhammad was a setback, Burns remains one of the top contenders in the UFC welterweight division.
His ability to bounce back from adversity has been a hallmark of his career, and fans eagerly await his next fight, hoping to see “Durinho” back in top form.
Burns has expressed his desire to continue fighting the best in the division and work his way back to a title shot.
Whether it’s through his grappling expertise or his ever-improving striking, Burns has the tools to remain a formidable force in the welterweight division for years to come.
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