For Josh Burkman, Healing Up Is Key

Written By Cameron Gidari

Veteran middleweight Josh Burkman (18-8 MMA, 5-5 UFC) has departed the UFC following his unanimous-decision defeat to Pete Sell at UFC 90.

Burkman has now lost his last three fights, but he told MMAMadness that his departure had less to do with his record, and more to do with his health.

“After the Pete Sell fight, I got an MRI, [and found a] herniated disc in my neck, four bulging discs in my back,” Burkman said. “I had arthritis, [and] a bunch of nerve damage up from the herniated.”

“I talked to [UFC matchmaker] Joe Silva and I told him I was taking a year off,” Burkman said. “He said when I was healthy and done with my rehab to give him a call.”

Burkman has spent the last four months rehabbing his back. In another week or so he will start a mock six-week training camp, to make sure that his body can handle the preparation necessary to fight.

“I feel like I’m in better shape now than I was for those last two fights,” Burkman said.

If he makes it through training camp, Burkman says that he will call the UFC, and thinks that the company would offer him a three-fight contract.

“[Silva] said they’re happy with me, they’re happy with the way that I fight,” Burkman said.

However, Burkman realizes the importance of that first comeback match.

“If I win that first fight ill be good, and if I lose that first fight ill be looking for somewhere else to fight,” Burkman said.

Burkman has not ruled out fighting a couple of smaller fights before returning to the UFC, likening it an injured pitcher throwing a couple of games at AAA before returning to the big leagues. His ultimate goal, however, remains the same.

“My goal is to be in the UFC and get back to being one of the best fighters in the UFC,” Burkman said.

Burkman is aiming to begin his comeback in October.

You can find more of Cameron's work at MMAMadness.com.