Gilbert Burns recalled one of the most difficult moments in his MMA career. Before achieving success in the sport, the Brazilian went through a difficult period in the United States, facing health problems and financial difficulties. It was against this backdrop, and after a conversation with his mother, that a turning point occurred in his life.
During a social media post, Durinho recounted that he had reached a breaking point, without money to cover basic expenses such as rent and medication. In an attempt to find a solution, the fighter decided to call his mother for help, but was surprised by the reality his own family was facing.
See too
The episode, in addition to highlighting the difficulties faced by the family, had a direct impact on the Brazilian's mindset. From that moment on, Durinho began to approach his career with a different attitude, increasing his level of dedication and focus to change his reality within the sport.
The turnaround began to take effect shortly after. According to the athlete himself, it was from 2009 onwards that the first positive results began to appear, starting the path that would lead him to become one of the leading names in Brazilian MMA.
"I needed to pay the rent, which was 7 or 8 dollars, and I had bronchitis. So I called my mother to see if she had any money to help me with the medicine."
"When I called, I talked to her for a while because I didn't want to ask for money right away. Then she asked me if I had any money to send her. I said I didn't have any at that moment, but that I would send it soon," revealed Gilbert Durinho.
Watch Durinho's account of the beginning of his career.
💔 Gilbert Burns once called his mother to ask for money, but before he got the chance, she asked if he had anything to send:
"I needed to pay rent, which was $7–8, and I had bronchitis. So I called my mom to see if she had money for medicine to help me out."
When I called her, I… pic.twitter.com/V1CZmB35Yt
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 21, 2026
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
You need to log in to comment.