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Gilbert Burns is looking to get back into the octagon at UFC 283 in Brazil. The No.5-ranked welterweight had been calling for a fight against Jorge Masvidal for the past few months. However, it has failed to materialize.
After claiming that Masvidal has been avoiding him, Burns shared that he believes Belal Muhammad is the most logical opponent right now.
Speaking to MMA Underground, Burns discussed the welterweight picture. Burns discussed potential opponents, sharing that he would fight any of the ranked fighters who don't have a fight booked:
"Now it's up to the UFC. I think they really want me to fight Masvidal, but I'm not going to wait. They say I'm fighting in Brazil, so I'm just waiting for an opponent in Brazil, and then later we can make the Masvidal fight if they still want it. Right now, I'm moving forward."
Gilbert Burns then revealed who he believes makes the most sense for his fight:
"At this point, I think Belal Muhammad. Just because he took my place in the rankings. That would be a good fight, and that is the one that is more close in the rankings, but at this point, I don't care. I know everybody wants to see me in Brazil."
Burns has been inactive since his unanimous decision loss to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 273.
Watch Gilbert Burns discuss his options for his next fight below (starting at the 3:20 mark):
Gilbert Burns reveals that he has moved on from Jorge Masvidal fight
Gilbert Burns had been targeting a fight against Jorge Masvidal for several months. The No.5-ranked welterweight recently revealed that he is now more focused on fighting at UFC 283 than facing Masvidal.
Speaking to MMA Underground, Burns doubled down on his claim that Masvidal turned down the opportunity to fight him at UFC 281, UFC 282, and UFC 283. He added that he has moved on from the potential matchup:
"I was done with that [Masvidal fight] a long time ago. I already said to the UFC, give me anyone; I don't care. The answer that I had was, 'We want to make you and Masvidal, and we're going to make it happen.' I'm fighting in Brazil, one hundred percent."
Burns had targeted a potential money fight with Masvidal. However, the No.11-ranked welterweight's refusal to sign the contract has forced him to move on.
Watch Gilbert Burns' full comments on the potential Jorge Masvidal fight below (starting at the 0:17 mark):
