Gilbert Burns wasn’t touched throughout his first spherical submission win on Saturday … and the UFC star already is aware of who and the place he desires subsequent — Colby Covington on “The Final Fighter”!
TMZ Sports activities talked to the 35-year-old fighter after he choked out Neil Magny at UFC 283 about the place he goes from right here.
Advertisement
“If I may choose, as a result of I could not choose for some time, I need Colby. That is a go-to title shot. If I beat Colby, particularly proper now. I might like to make a coach [on TUF] and compete towards Colby,” Burns advised us.
FYI, 34-year-old Covington, who final fought at UFC 272 towards rival Jorge Masvidal (Colby received by unanimous choice), is ranked second within the division … behind longtime champ, Kamaru Usman.
Advertisement
After all, “The Final Fighter” was launched by Dana White and the UFC in 2005 … placing a bunch of fighters in a home. Suppose a UFC and ‘Actual World’ mash-up.
The primary season featured coaches Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar. The boys famously fought on the finish of the season … in one of many biggest matches within the promotion’s historical past.
Advertisement
For the reason that present’s inception, stars like Conor McGregor, Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz and plenty of others have appeared on the TV present.
Gilbert says Dana advised him they’d meet this week and go over choices for the long run.
Advertisement
“I talked to Dana and Hunter proper after the battle. They stated they’d have a gathering [Monday] or Tuesday and they’ll let me know. I already put quite a lot of choices. That is my primary choose.”
Burns talks about his relationship with Covington (imagine it or not, GB would not hate CC) … but when the battle would not occur, Gilbert says he is all the way down to rematch Khamzat Chimaev.
Advertisement
The boys fought in a barn-burner of a contest final yr … and Gilbert pushed the beforehand untouched and untested (within the UFC, a minimum of) undefeated fighter.
Burns misplaced by choice … however is assured he can beat Chimaev.
Advertisement
“100% I would battle him once more,” Gilbert stated.
“In the event that they ask me, ‘Hey do you need to battle?’ For positive. When? That is the one query I need to say. When?”