Jorge Masvidal beaten by Gilbert Burns; retires after 4th straight loss in the UFC

Twenty years ago, while watching UFC 42 from the stands, Jorge Masvidal was motivated to pursue a career in mixed martial arts. After a career filled with high points and memorable moments, he lost to Gilbert Burns on Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 287 at the Kaseya Center in his native Miami, Florida, and left the sport, in his words, "as a multi-millionaire."

Burns won with scores of 30-27 and 29-28 from the judges, but it is obvious that his victory was not as impressive as he had claimed it would be in order to shock UFC president Dana White.

Masvidal had suffered four straight losses, and he lacked the passion he had displayed for the majority of his career.

“Sometimes, your favorite basketball player can’t hit the 3-pointer any more,” Masvidal said. “Sometimes your favorite quarterback loses that rifle. I don’t feel the same when I get in here no more. It’s been 20 years. I love all of you. The UFC came here 20 years ago and it inspired me to chase this dream.”

Burns' victory was significant because he wanted to outperform White so that he would give him the next opportunity to face UFC welterweight champion, Leon Edwards. Burns won the battle hands down, but he didn't completely blow everyone away as White predicted before the bout.

“I am the only guy in the division, maybe the only guy in the whole UFC, willing to fight anyone at any time,” Burns said.

Burns then called out both Edwards and Covington and said he’d fight them no matter the terms. It was one of the biggest wins of his career and ran his winning streak to three in a row. He’s also won four of his last five.