Gilbert Burns reveals why he didn’t turn down Michael Morales bout amid three-fight skid

Gilbert Burns never considered turning down a fight with Michael Morales.

Burns is a well-respected veteran in MMA, and he’s competed against elite competition under the UFC banner. While “Durinho” is on a three-fight skid, his losses have been against current UFC Welterweight Champion Jack Della Maddalena, former titleholder Belal Muhammad, and the No. 1-ranked Sean Brady.

Now, Burns will be mixing it up with a rising undefeated 170-pounder in Morales, and the 30-fight veteran knows it’s simply a part of the fight game.

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Burns Wasn’t Going to Turn Down Morales Fight

While some would’ve understood if Gilbert Burns ultimately turned down a fight with Michael Morales, “Durinho” believes it would’ve gone against how the UFC’s business succeeds. Burns told Danny Segura on MMAJunkie‘s “Hablemos MMA” that Morales deserves the same opportunities that he was once given.

“Michael Morales won this spot,” Burns said. “He deserves this spot. He’s been doing a very good job, 25 years old, 17 fights unbeaten. He deserves this kind of opportunity.

“I was like Michael Morales years ago,” Burns explained.” I was making noise and making my way to the top and Damian Maia, Gunnar Nelson gave me the opportunity. I feel like I have to do the same. It’s a test. If I go and win, I knock him off, and he can have another opportunity in the future. But he needs an opportunity, and who am I to say no?

“I’m here to fight the best. If they think he’s next, let’s fight then. I respect everyone and I think everyone needs an opportunity. If he’s good, then he will win. But for me, I don’t have that, ‘Oh, I’m No. 5, I have to fight against No. 3 and 4.’ No, no, no, no. I’m going to fight who the UFC and the fans want me to fight.”

Burns will turn 39 years old this July, and another loss would leave fans wondering if it’s time for the Brazilian fan favorite to hang up his gloves. On the flipside, an impressive win over the undefeated Morales could reignite title hopes for Burns.

Burns vs. Morales will headline this Saturday’s UFC card in Las Vegas. BJPenn.com will provide coverage of the event throughout the weekend.