Gilbert Durinho points to possible next UFC opponent and reveals return date

Gilbert Durinho at the weigh-in at UFC Vegas 106. Photo: Reproduction UFC Brazil

Gilbert Durinho feels that he already has his next opponent in mind. The veteran, who flirts with retirement and is coming off a bad phase in his career, he believes he can serve as a showcase for new names in the organization and points to the Canadian prospect Mike Malott as his likely rival in the next round.

In a video published on his YouTube channel, Gilbert Durinho highlighted that Mike Malott should be in the top 15 of the rankings in the next update and predicted that a match against him would be an opportunity to take the next step in the Canadian's career, as the Brazilian is currently 11th in the division.

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"The Mike Malott "It'll be ranked on Tuesday, and I'm sure the guys are going to throw that fight at me. I don't know why, but I'm thinking it'll be the next fight. I'm going to be back in January or February, and I'm thinking it'll be the fight offered; they'll throw this guy at me," said Durinho.

At 39, Gilbert Durinho has stated several times that he is close to hanging up his MMA gloves and taking the next step in his career. The Brazilian, who has previously challenged for the welterweight (up to 77 kg) belt, is on a four-fight losing streak, his worst since debuting in the sport.

Mike Malott, in turn, achieved his sixth UFC victory against Kevin holland, at UFC Vancouver, held last Saturday (18). The Canadian had already hit the ranking post once, when he was defeated by Neil Magny.