Tue. Apr 21st, 2026

Kamaru Usman pens classy tribute to rival Gilbert Burns after UFC Winnipeg retirement

Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, took to social media to offer a heartfelt and respectful message to his one-time rival, Gilbert Burns, following the Brazilian fighter’s retirement announcement at UFC Winnipeg. Burns, a prominent figure in the welterweight division, confirmed his decision to hang up his gloves after a significant career in the octagon.

Usman, who famously battled Burns in a closely contested fight that saw Usman retain his title, acknowledged the impact Burns had on the sport and on his own career. In his message, Usman praised Burns’ heart, skill, and dedication, referring to him as a true warrior and a gentleman. He specifically mentioned their shared history and the respect that developed between them, even amidst intense competition.

The former champion expressed his well wishes for Burns’ future endeavors, emphasizing that while his time in the octagon may be over, his legacy will endure. Usman’s tribute highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect that can exist between elite athletes, even after fierce rivalries.

Kamaru Usman pens classy tribute to rival Gilbert Burns after UFC Winnipeg retirement

Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, has posted a class act of a tribute to his one-time rival, Gilbert Burns, following the latter’s retirement announcement at UFC Winnipeg. Burns, a significant name in the welterweight landscape, declared his decision to step away from professional fighting at the recent event.

Usman, who faced Burns in a highly anticipated championship bout, lauded Burns’ fighting spirit, talent, and commitment to the sport. He described Burns as a warrior and a gentleman, acknowledging the profound respect that grew between them during their shared time in the elite ranks of MMA. Their bout, a testament to their skill and determination, remains a memorable moment in the welterweight division’s history.

The former king of the welterweight division conveyed his best wishes to Burns for his post-fighting life, asserting that his contributions to MMA will not be forgotten. Usman’s gesture underscores the sportsmanship and deep mutual regard that often characterizes relationships between top-tier competitors, even those who have clashed intensely.

English Translation:

Kamaru Usman writes a stylish tribute to rival Gilbert Burns after UFC Winnipeg retirement

Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, took to social media to offer a heartfelt and respectful message to his one-time rival, Gilbert Burns, following the Brazilian fighter’s retirement announcement at UFC Winnipeg. Burns, a prominent figure in the welterweight division, confirmed his decision to hang up his gloves after a significant career in the octagon.

Usman, who famously battled Burns in a closely contested fight that saw Usman retain his title, acknowledged the impact Burns had on the sport and on his own career. In his message, Usman praised Burns’ heart, skill, and dedication, referring to him as a true warrior and a gentleman. He specifically mentioned their shared history and the respect that developed between them, even amidst intense competition.

The former champion expressed his well wishes for Burns’ future endeavors, emphasizing that while his time in the octagon may be over, his legacy will endure. Usman’s tribute highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect that can exist between elite athletes, even after fierce rivalries.

By Jack Thornley

Jack Thornley is a passionate MMA journalist based in Bristol. With over a decade covering everything from local amateur bouts to international UFC events, Jack brings an insider's perspective to his articles. His candid interviews with fighters reveal the human stories behind the combat.

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