Gilbert Burns Names Three Bellator Fighters Who Can Give UFC Champs A Run For Their Money

UFC welterweight contender Gilbert Burns is eager to see some of Bellator's top fighters make their way into the UFC. Burns, a former title challenger, believes that certain Bellator champions have the skill set to not only compete but potentially dethrone UFC champions in their respective divisions.

Currently on a three-fight skid, Burns is set to return at UFC 314 in Miami, Florida, against undefeated rising star Michael Morales on April 12, 2025. With his back against the wall, "Durinho" knows this is a must-win fight to keep his championship aspirations alive.

During a recent episode of "Show Me The Money," where he joined UFC lightweight Renato Moicano, Burns discussed potential UFC signings and named three Bellator fighters he believes could shake things up inside the Octagon.

“One guy I really want to see in the UFC is Patchy Mix. That guy is insanely talented, and I hope they release him because Bellator isn’t giving him the fights he deserves," Burns said. "Another one is Johnny Eblen. That guy could go head-to-head with Dricus Du Plessis right now. He’s easily a top-five middleweight, and I think he has a real shot at beating DDP.”

Burns continued, “The third fighter I want to see in the UFC is Patricio Pitbull. He’s a legend, and while he might not have a long run left, I still think he can put on some great fights." He added, "Those three guys—Patchy Mix, Johnny Eblen, and Patricio Pitbull—would make the UFC’s roster even more stacked. But Mix and Eblen? They’re in their prime, and I think they could make an immediate impact.”

At 37, Patricio Pitbull may not be in his prime anymore, but Mix (20-1) and Eblen (undefeated) are two of the most dominant fighters in their divisions. Many fans and analysts agree with Burns that their move to the UFC would create must-watch matchups.

With Bellator struggling under its merger with the PFL, several top fighters are eager to test themselves on the sport’s biggest stage. If the UFC makes a move, fans could be in for some blockbuster fights in 2025.