Gilbert Burns issues UFC welterweight title shot ultimatum; Dana White responds

MIAMI – Gilbert Burns is not taking anything less than a title fight for his next outing, and is willing to walk away from the UFC if he doesn’t get it.

The UFC welterweight veteran demanded a backup role for the expected title fight between champ Leon Edwards and challenger Colby Covington, plus to be the next in line in case his services aren’t needed as a replacement. Burns (22-5 MMA, 15-5 UFC) was extremely firm when speaking with the media following his unanimous decision win over Jorge Masvidal at Saturday’s UFC 287.

“I think it’s almost a done deal Leon (Edwards) and Colby (Covington) in London, if I’m not wrong,” Burns said at the UFC 287 post-fight press conference. “It’s almost a done deal, it’s just small details. I want to be a backup. I’m going to. I’m not asking. I’m demanding that I am going to because whenever they ask anytime the UFC calls asking for opponent, I say yes.”

Burns has already fought twice in 2023, and doesn’t want to take another fight just to stay active. He has his eyes set on another shot at the welterweight title, and issued an ultimatum that was heard by the UFC brass.

“Now I’m demanding that I’m going to do my training camp for five rounds, I go to London, and I’m next in line to fight for the title,” Burns said. “Otherwise, let me go, let me do my thing. These guys asking a million in other organizations you know. That’s it, I’m a backup for the next title fight, and I’m fighting for the title next.”

UFC president Dana White has said Covington is next for Edwards’ second title defense, but there has been no date or location discussed for the potential fight. When asked about Burns’s demands, White liked what he heard.

“I love that,” White said. “Yeah, why not? You got a deal.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 287.