Gilbert Burns calls for UFC 281 showdown with Jorge Masvidal: ‘We doing this or what?’

Former UFC welterweight title challenger, Gilbert Burns has echoed his willingness to share the Octagon with fellow former title chaser, Jorge Masvidal – questioning if the Floridian is available for a November matchup at UFC 281. 

Burns, the current #4 ranked welterweight contender, featured on the main card of UFC 273 most recently back in April against the surging, Khamzat Chimaev – suffering a close, unanimous decision loss to the undefeated Chechen.

As for Masvidal, the Miami veteran headlined 272 back in March against former teammate, Colby Covington, suffering a unanimous decision loss. The defeat saw Masvidal slip to #8 in the official welterweight pile off the back of consecutive losses against common foe, champion, Kamaru Usman.

Targeting returns before the end of this year, Burns and Masvidal have been linked to an all-Florida matchup next – in what would come as a showdown between Kill Cliff FC and American Top Team.

Floating a potential November pairing at Madison Square Garden at UFC 281 is likely set to role into town, Burns fielded an offer to the veteran Masvidal.

“Hey @GamebredFighter (Jorge Masvidal) we doing this in November or what? #supernecessary,” Gilbert Burns tweeted. 

Previously challenging for undisputed welterweight gold, Burns headlined a pay-per-view event against Usman back in March of last year, suffering a third round knockout loss against the Auchi native. 

In his most recent victory, the Niteroi grappler defeated another common-opponent, multiple-time title challenger, Stephen Thompson in the co-main event of UFC 264 in July of last year.

Ross Markey

Senior writer for FightBook MMA. An aspiring mixed martial arts reporter based in Ireland. Producer of news articles, interviews, opinion features, and exclusive features such as, ‘The Fallout’, ‘The Breakdown, and, ‘This Week In MMA’.