After flying to Qatar alone and cutting weight without a team, Justin Burlinson says he’s now risking homelessness in hopes of getting the UFC’s attention.
One fighter took extreme measures this week in an attempt to force his way into the UFC. The story comes just days after one of the biggest surprises at UFC 322 — Ethyn Ewing’s upset win over Malcolm Wellmaker. Ewing, who stepped in on short notice only a week after winning the A1 Combat bantamweight title, instantly became the latest example of a fighter seizing the moment.
Inspired by stories like Ewing’s, Cage Warriors welterweight champion Justin Burlinson travelled to Qatar on his own to be ready in case a short-notice opportunity arose during UFC Qatar fight week.
Justin Burlinson says he could be homeless after chasing UFC dream
On Friday, every fighter on the UFC Qatar card successfully made weight — good news for fans, but devastating for Burlinson, who had positioned himself for a potential last-minute call-up. The Englishman’s only career losses came against UFC veteran Rhys McKee and Yohan Lainesse, who defeated him on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2021.
Burlinson’s journey is already remarkable. Before returning to action last year, he overcame testicular cancer and a serious knee injury. This week, he posted multiple videos explaining that he flew to Qatar alone and cut weight without his coaches, hoping the UFC might need a late replacement.
But his gamble has come at a steep price. “Hopefully I can get a contract with the UFC because I’ve actually spent the last three months’ rent on this trip,” he admitted in one clip. “So it’s either get a contract or be homeless.”
Despite missing out on this card, the 28-year-old still hopes that someone from the UFC saw the lengths he went to.
Fans rally behind Burlinson’s bold attempt
Burlinson’s posts sparked a wide range of reactions. Some fans questioned the financial risk, while many others admired the determination of the 10–2 contender.
“That’s crazy dedication. Give the man his shot,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Dana White, don’t you like fighters like this?”
Others chimed in with messages like, “Dana respects guys like him — he’ll take care of this kid,” and, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Hope he gets rewarded for this.”
One commenter praised Burlinson for “getting his name out there,” while another defended him against criticism: “Wow, most UFC fans are soulless clowns… I hope you get what you came for.”
Whether or not the UFC offers him a contract, Burlinson’s willingness to bet everything on a dream has already earned him widespread respect across the MMA community.
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