UFC’s Gilbert Burns optimistic after KO loss to Jack Della Maddalena

Gilbert Burns nonetheless thinks he has what it takes to turn out to be UFC welterweight champion.

Burns (22-7 MMA, 15-7 UFC) was simply over a minute away from beating Jack Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 7-0 UFC) at UFC 299 earlier than a pricey mistake led to him being knocked out in Round 3. Two of the three judges had him up 20-18 heading into the third.

The previous title challenger now has dropped two straight, however he received’t let these setbacks deter him from his title hopes.

“I’m 37, I’m not getting any youthful, however I do consider I’ve every little thing I must turn out to be a champion,” Burns mentioned on his YouTube channel. “In regards to the footwork, the protection, technical stuff, combos. I used to be throwing a variety of single pictures, however I’m nonetheless there.

“I’m nonetheless alive within the division. I do know can beat so many guys. The dream remains to be alive. I nonetheless wish to turn out to be a champion. It’s not only a dream, it’s my purpose. Guess what? I’m going to work very onerous for that. For certain just a little clean-up, little issues I must do technically, mentally, bodily. We at all times want to enhance.”

Upon discovering out that Della Maddalena broke his arm in Round 1, Burns’ respect for him grew even larger.

“He broke his arm perhaps from the primary or second kick that I threw, and the man didn’t present it,” Burns mentioned. “Man, a lot respect. I’m a much bigger fan now already of Jack. I already favored the man, I favored his type, I like that he goes ahead, tried to complete the struggle. After that efficiency, I’m greater than a fan. I feel he deserves it. Man, no excuses in any respect.”

For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC 299.