UFC president Dana White responded to Gilbert Burns‘ demand to be the backup fighter for the upcoming title bout by granting him exactly what he wanted.
Gilbert Burns, the No. 5 ranked welterweight contender, recently demanded to be the backup fighter for the upcoming title bout between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington, and to face the winner in the Octagon. In his post-fight speech after defeating Jorge Masvidal in the UFC 287 co-main event on Saturday, Burns made his demands and also asked to be released by the fight promotion if they opposed. However, UFC president Dana White responded by granting Burns exactly what he wanted.
“I love that,” White said. “Deal. You’ve got a deal.”
Burns, who is riding a two-fight winning streak with a record of 22-5, has won nine of his last 11 fights, with his two losses being a decision to Khamzat Chimaev and a TKO loss to former champion Kamaru Usman. With White’s agreement, Burns will now be the backup fighter for the upcoming title bout.
Throughout the pre-fight buildup, the welterweight championship match between Edwards and Covington has been anticipated to be a tense battle between the two fighters. Burns, who previously competed against Covington in May 2020, was looking forward to the opportunity to square up against him once again, should he win the title. The Brazilian fighter, who is trained in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, has consistently aimed to make his mark on the UFC with his aggressive fighting style.
Despite Burns’ backing down from his initial request to be released from the UFC if his ultimatum was not granted, it remains to be seen whether Burns’ wish will come to pass. However, with the support of the UFC president, it appears that Burns has made a significant breakthrough in his continued fight for success in the premier mixed martial arts promotion.