Gilbert Burns is a classic case of the UFC using their aging vets to build new stars. Gilbert has been a company man, always doing the right thing by the UFC. He accepted a few short notice matchups, took on Khamzat when no one else would, and now the UFC is feeding him to prospect after prospect. Age matters in this sport and unfortunately for Burns he is on the wrong side of 35. I don't even know what Gilbert could do here to have success. Morales is bigger, faster, stronger, a better wrestler and a better striker. Morales is the pick and I am shocked he hasn't ballooned up to -1000 yet.
Gilbert Burns
Gilbert Burns is a grappler who has devloped striking over time. He has impressive power and is willing to throw down. He is undersized for the division but he is fast, powerful and tough enough to hang with the divisions elite. He is coming off the decision loss to Sean Brady where Sean showed zero respect to the grappling and took him down 7 times.
Michael Morales
Michael Morales is an absolute killer. He is a freestyle wrestling National Champion and a Muay Thai national champion from Ecuador. He has fantastic footwork and a great jab. He has a nice loose boxing stance which is what allows him to work in and out so well. His takedowns are clean but they are more throws and trips than traditional shots. He is coming off the finish win over Neil Magny where he defended a takedown then threw a spinning back elbow which dropped and then finished him.
