Kamaru Usman vs. Gilbert Burns? Dana White Says It’s “Highly Likely”

Gilbert Burns has been on a ridiculous roll in recent months, and it looks like “Durinho” could keep on rolling right into a title fight with Kamaru Usman. Yes, even though for quite some time, the plan was to have Jorge Masvidal challenge the welterweight champ next.

White says Usman – Burns is “highly likely”

After quickly taking out longtime contender Demian Maia in March, Burns was tapped to face Woodley at UFC Vegas last weekend. While a lot of observers knew that Burns would present a stiff test for Woodley, not many people predicted he’d dominate the former champ as he did.

Due to that win, which was Burns’ sixth straight victory, after the card he relayed he wants a title shot. While it remains to be seen if that happens, while White was talking with Steve-O on his podcast, the UFC President said this (quotes via MMA Fighting). 

“You got Colby Covington, you got Jorge Masvidal, you got Leon Edwards and now, obviously you have Gilbert Burns,” White said. “All of those guys, the reality is, we’re going to reach out tomorrow and we’re gonna say: ‘Who wants the next fight?

Who wants this fight? Who is ready to go? Who wants to fight Usman?’ If it’s Masvidal, Edwards or Burns.

“Burns told me that night, ‘Let’s turn this sh*t right round, I’ll fight Usman now. I’m ready.’ I love that kind of sh*t. When you’re that guy, it’s highly likely you’re getting that f*cking fight.”

So, we’ll see what happens. There’s no doubt that Usman – Masvidal would be a bigger fight. But, recently it’s been reported that that talks for that match-up have stalled.

Leon Edwards is also in the running, on account of his eight-fight winning streak. But, due to the pandemic, it’s not clear whether Edwards will get tapped for a title fight at this time. Would Usman agree to fight him on ‘Fight Island’?

Speaking of Masvidal

During White’s appearance, he also had this to say about “Gamebred” and his next bout.

“There’s nothing bigger than a title fight,” White said. “But Masvidal has options. Masvidal’s in a place where he has some fun options.”

If Masvidal doesn’t get booked for a bout with Usman, could he face Nate Diaz for a second time? Or is Conor McGregor looking to face the dangerous welterweight?

White has mentioned other options for Masvidal recently, so it seems clear that the UFC’s hoping to have the star fight soon. Whether it’s a title fight or not.