Gilbert Burns vs Stephen Thompson — Fight recap

Gilbert Burns defeated Stephen Thompson by unanimous decision over three rounds on July 10, 2021, with referee Marc Goddard officiating. Burns controlled the bout through superior striking efficiency and grappling, landing 29 significant strikes at 67% accuracy compared to Thompson's 19 of 53 (35%).

The Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist secured three takedowns while accumulating 7:13 of control time, dictating the pace and preventing Thompson from establishing his signature distance striking. Burns' leg kicks proved particularly effective, connecting on all ten attempts, while Thompson remained unable to mount any takedowns or generate meaningful offensive pressure.

The decision underscored Burns' evolution as a complete mixed martial artist and positioned him as a legitimate contender in the welterweight division's upper tier.