Gilbert Burns names Anderson Silva and others among his Brazilian MMA Mt. Rushmore
South America has produced some of the greatest mixed martial artists to ever step foot into the cage. Due to this, Gilbert Burns has named Anderson Silva among his picks for a star-studded Brazilian Mt. Rushmore.
'Durinho' is one of the best current fighters in the world hailing from the country but there have been many who have surpassed his accomplishments inside the octagon. While the United States is arguably the most successful and Russia is on the rise, those from Brazil are likely the second most accomplished nation in MMA.
When asked who his Mt. Rushmore of Brazilian mixed martial arts is, Gilbert Burns gave a list of monumental figures, who have represented his country to the highest extent in the sport.
"[My Mt. Rushmore of Brazilian MMA?] So, I got Nogueira up there for sure. Minotauro Nogueira first. Then we go Anderson Silva, legend. Aldo [is] up there too... Number four for me is Fabricio Werdum. In my eyes, he's one of the best. Jiu-Jitsu world champion, ADCC champion, and UFC champion... People don't remember him so much, but I do. I think he's one of the greats that came from Brazil."
Despite enduring a rough patch towards the end of his UFC career, Werdum has accolades in the sport that unquestionably make him a legend. Claiming victory over some of the biggest names in MMA history, bringing an end to Fedor Emelianenko's 28-fight unbeaten run, and capturing gold in the octagon are just some of his achievements in the sport.
Check out what Gilbert Burns had to say regarding his Brazilian Mt. Rushmore in the video below.
Gilbert Burns ranks his Brazilian MMA Mt. Rushmore! #UFC287
@Lthomasnews & @Bcampbell's interview w/ @gilbertdurinho is available here: youtube.com/watch?v=f2tU4n… https://t.co/l5kRJ3yyND
Gilbert Burns next fight: When will the tough Brazilian return to the octagon?
After coming up short in the fight-of-the-year contender clash against Khamzat Chimaev last year, Gilbert Burns returned to winning ways with a first-round submission victory over Neil Magny at UFC 283.
Following the win, the 36-year-old is hoping to force his way into title contention and will be given that chance when he collides with fellow veteran Jorge Masvidal next time out.
Headlined by Israel Adesanya's huge grudge match against Alex Pereira, UFC 287 will host the clash between Burns and 'Gamebred', as the pair look to steal the show when they make the walk to the octagon for the co-main event on April 8.