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Gilbert Burns is a name that commands respect in the UFC welterweight division. Unfortunately, his recent run of form has left a lot to be desired, which 'Durinho' addressed in an interview with Home of Fight. In particular, he spoke about no longer being seen as a title contender, but as a gatekeeper.
Most fighters usually resist the label of a gatekeeper, refusing to be regarded as such. Burns, though, is cut from a different cloth and does not mind competing against a new crop of fighters.
"The UFC knows, they're gonna call me and ask. They know I'm gonna fight anyone. I'm not picking and choosing all these easy fights. I'm not that type of guy. I'm here to fight, I'm here to... not even to prove, but to show, I know. But I gotta show these guys I'm one of the best fighters in the world, and still willing to put everything to become a champion. So, a couple of things, I will never say no to a fight, and the fans like it. I put on a show."
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Specifically regarding the gatekeeper label, Burns said the following:
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"It's those guys, the... people like to say the, how do you call the doorman, how do you call that? The gatekeeper, but you gotta pass through one of those guys to go to the top. So, I like that, I don't mind. I don't mind to be that guy."
Check out Gilbert Burns' thoughts on being labeled a gatekeeper (0:27):
At one point, Burns was regarded as a top welterweight, even competing for the division's title at UFC 258. Now, though, he is on a rough patch and will need to use every ounce of skill this weekend to overcome a young, hungry prospect.
Gilbert Burns faces Michael Morales at UFC Vegas 106
Gilbert Burns will main event UFC Vegas 106 this Saturday, facing Michael Morales in what seems like a do-or-die bout. For 'Durinho,' it is a bout that will reveal whether he still belongs in conversation about the promotion's top welterweights, as he is on a three-fight losing streak.
For Morales, though, it is a chance to make a name for himself by beating a well-established veteran with a respectable legacy. He is undefeated, and a win over Burns is Morales' ticket to the welterweight top 10.
