“Wish I Had Put $10,000”: Bruce Buffer Breaks Down Justin Gaethje’s Win Over Ilia Topuria

Justin Gaethje pulled off an upset at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House in June. The American star defeated Ilia Topuria, who was then the undefeated 17-0 lightweight champion.

Heading into the fight, Topuria was a heavy betting favorite, having built a reputation for finishing some of the division’s best fighters. However, Buffer believes Gaethje gave Topuria one of the toughest fights of his career.

Bruce Buffer Talks About Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria

During a livestream with N30n, the legendary UFC announcer revealed that he regrets not betting on one of the biggest fights in UFC history.

“I told everybody, 'Look, I don't predict fights, and I don't bet on fights, but if you're going to bet on this one, it's a gift from God,” Buffer said.

“Gaethje has thick bones. He's been through deep, deep wars and survived, and he's incredibly difficult to knock out. He also punches harder than anybody at 155 pounds, as every UFC fighter will tell you. Khabib said he punches like a truck. He punches like a diesel truck, right? And he can take a punch, too,” Buffer added.

Buffer further explained that Ilia Topuria had a Mike Tyson-esque run in the UFC, finishing contenders. However, he believed the Spaniard had yet to be tested in deep waters.

According to Buffer, Justin Gaethje pushed Topuria into the later rounds, exposing some of his flaws. However, the UFC announcer also gave Topuria his flowers, praising him for continuing to move forward despite absorbing significant damage.

"I wish I had put $10,000 on it, but I didn't," Buffer said after explaining his pick.

What’s Next for Both

Ilia Topuria’s corner stopped the fight after the fourth round. The Spaniard suffered severe facial injuries and was handed an 180-day medical suspension.

Topuria is now cleared and has returned to training. He has called for a rematch with the champion. However, Gaethje, who is preparing for his first title defense, wants to face Arman Tsarukyan, whom he considers a worthy contender.

Both Gaethje and Tsarukyan have verbally agreed to the matchup. Also, UFC CEO Dana White has also acknowledged Tsarukyan’s position in the title race. As a result, the fight appears very likely to happen. Meanwhile, Topuria might have to earn another title shot with a win on his return.