ABU DHABI – Gilbert Burns has a name in mind for his next UFC opponent.
Burns (22-9 MMA, 15-9 UFC) is currently dealing with the physical aftermath of a first-round TKO loss to unbeaten Michael Morales at UFC Fight Night 256 in May, which marked a fourth consecutive defeat for the one-time welterweight title challenger.
He hopes he’s cleared by doctors in the coming months, however, and Burns said he’s looking at a showdown with Daniel Rodriguez, who is on a three-fight winning streak after edging Kevin Holland on the scorecards at UFC 318 this month.
“I’m looking toward December,” Burn told MMA Junkie. “I had a little concussion, I’m still not able to come back, so I’ve still got to get a few more things in the protocol to get able to get back to training. I’ve still got to take it easy a bit. It was a hard one, but I’m looking toward December. I just saw Daniel Rodriguez just got a nice win against Kevin Holland. He’s ranked now. I think that should be a fun one. Me and Daniel Rodriguez in December, maybe January.”
Burns said his concussion came with the knockout blow from Morales in the octagon. The 39-year-old said he’s “feeling much better now,” but it being intelligent with his recovery process and won’t allow himself to do contact training until fully cleared.
“Let’s see how the concussion protocol goes,” Burns said. “That’s one I’m looking forward to. With the brain you can’t play it all. We’ve got to take it most serious. Most likely December or January. Let’s see how it goes.”
