Gilbert Burns Says He Know's He Can Submit Kamaru Usman at UFC 258 - Media Day Round-up

 

Few fighters have known bad luck quite like Gilbert Burns in the past year, but after multiple cancellations he will finally step into the octagon against his former teammate Kamaru Usman at UFC 258. The build up to their fight has been steeped in mystery, as fans and pundits alike have tried to guess who will have the advantage come fight night. Former UFC Light-Heavyweight and Heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, has likened the matchup to Rashad Evans and Jon Jones, suggesting that: 'One of those guys [In the UFC 258 main event] knows [who's better]'. This idea has been acknowledged by both champion and challenger who addressed the comments at the UFC 258 Media Day.

The champ made it clear that he was full of confidence when questioned about Cormier's comments by MMAJunkie's John Morgan: 'I know DC said earlier this week that we both know what's going to take place [...] he's put the work in the last year and half, but... We both know'. Certainly a statement of intent from Usman who has proved time and time again his capabilities and championship heart. It will be fascinating to see the game plan of Usman, who will no doubt recognise the threat his former teammate poses in all facets of the fight game. Usman acknowledged the talent of his former teammate, stating: "Of course there's days where he probably got the better of me and vice versa, but we both know how tough this fight is going to be". Usman is certainly not underestimating his adversary and credited his work with Trevor Wittman, saying: "I needed a little bit more attention, a little bit more fine tuning, and I found a coach that could give me that". Trevor Wittman is obviously renowned for his work with the likes of Justin Gaethje and Rose Namajunas, both of whom have developed excellent stand-up skills under the tutelage of the Grudge Training coach. I for one am incredibly excited to see what fresh skills Usman will be bringing to the fight at UFC 258. 

When asked if there would be a psychological or tactical edge for either fighter, Burns answered: "Not really. We had a lot of wars together [...] it's very even". Burns cited Usman's departure from Sanford MMA to train with Trevor Wittman in Denver as a potential disadvantage, stating: "all the teammates who helped me prepare for him know him very well and every single one of them said 'oh he does this good, watch out here, you're going to hit him with that one'". Burns was keen to emphasise that it was a 50-50 between the two in terms of their skills, even going as far as to welcome Usman to use his wrestling game: "I do think we're going to wrestle [...] I'm not afraid of him. It's going to be a battle [...] I want to wrestle with him". You cannot fault the confidence of the Brazilian and his assurance in his capabilities to submit the champion. Burns stated: "I know can submit him anywhere anytime [...] He knows, he knows [...] Kamaru Usman knows I can submit him". Will we see an upset or will Usman's reign continue?

UFC 258 promises to be an awesome night of fights. I can't wait to see the former teammates battle it out for Welterweight supremacy and will be doing live text commentary on my Twitter (@MMAEyewitness) for all of the fights! I hope to see you there!

~ James Eakin

References: Kamaru Usman interview available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VAOccXECkw (TheMacLife). Accessed [Feb '21].

Gilbert Burns interview available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03sB9db_lcU&t=768s (TheMacLife). Accessed [Feb '21].

Image credits: [Centre] "How to Watch UFC 258: Usman vs Burns", Thomas Gerbasi. Available at: https://www.ufc.com/news/how-to-watch-ufc-258-usman-vs-burns [Accessed Feb '21].