Gilbert Burns still believes he has what it takes to become UFC welterweight champion.
Burns (22-7 MMA, 15-7 UFC) was one minute away from defeating Jacques Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 7-0 UFC) at UFC 299, but it was a painful loss. He was knocked out in round 3 due to a mistake. Two of the three judges gave him a 20-18 lead heading into the third match.
The former title challenger is currently on a two-game losing streak, but that setback won't derail his title hopes.
“I'm 37 years old and I'm not getting any younger, but I believe I have everything it takes to be a champion,” Burns said on his YouTube channel. “Footwork, defense, technical stuff, combos. I was throwing a lot of single shots, but I still have a long way to go.
“I'm still alive in the division. I know I can beat a lot of people. The dream is still alive. I still want to be champion. It's not just a dream, it's my goal. Guess what? We will definitely try our best to improve. There is certainly some cleaning and little things that need to be done technically, mentally and physically. We always need to improve.”
Burns' respect for him grew even more when he learned that Della Maddalena broke his arm in round one.
“He probably broke his arm on the first or second kick I threw, but the guy didn't show it,” Burns said. “Dude, I really respect that. I'm already a big fan of Jack. I already like the guy, I like his style, I like how he stepped forward and tried to finish the fight. That. After the performance, I became more than just a fan. I think he deserves it. No, I have no excuses at all.”
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