Gilbert Burns Fighting for a Return to Title Contention: ‘I Still Have What It Takes’

“If I go out there and finish him, I’m right back where I want to be”

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Gilbert Burns: “If I go out there and finish him, I’m right back where I want to be”

If you are looking for an upset at UFC 299, Gilbert Burns has you covered.

Only a slight underdog, Burns looks to make the most of his Miami homecoming in tomorrow’s fight against Jack Della Maddalena. A victory would elevate Burns (22-6) back into the upper echelon of welterweight title contention, especially if he can knockout a rising star like Della Maddalena.

“I still have what it takes,” said Burns. “That’s why I took this fight. If I finish this guy, I’m right back where I want to be.”

Courtesy Zuffa LLC

Della Maddalena (16-2) is a puzzle none of his opponents in the Octagon have been able to solve. He has won his last 16 fights, including all six in the UFC.

“I know how good he is,” said Burns. “I cornered against him [in 2021] on the Contender Series. He’s very strong. Good boxing, good takedown defense. But I like the matchup. He’s never been tested by someone like me. He’s never faced someone my caliber.”

Courtesy Zuffa LLC

Youth versus experience will be on full display at UFC 299, with Burns seeking to prove he is still at the top of his game after losing this past spring to Muhammad. If he comes full throttle at Della Maddalena, showcasing his elite striking and strong chin, then Burns, 37, can reclaim a spot in the title picture.

Della Maddalena, 27, enters this fight with a lot to prove. Burns has fought the top of the division, including bouts against Kamaru Usman, Belal Muhammad, Khamzat Chimaev, and Stephen Thompson. This is an area where Della Maddalena simply does not match up, with a split decision victory against Kevin Holland serving as the lone exception.

“Let’s see what happens,” said Burns. “It’s a big test for me, too.” 

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The Pick ‘Em Section

UFC 299 bantamweight title bout: Sean O’Malley (c) vs. Chito Vera

Pick: Sean O’Malley

UFC 299 lightweight bout: Dustin Poirier vs. Benoît Saint Denis

Pick: Benoît Saint Denis

UFC 299 welterweight bout: Kevin Holland vs. Michael Page

Pick: Michael Page

UFC 299 welterweight bout: Gilbert Burns vs. Jack Della Maddalena

Pick: Gilbert Burns

UFC 299 bantamweight bout: Song Yadong vs. Petr Yan

Pick: Song Yadong

Last week: 3-2

2024 record: 20-15