Justin Gaethje reveals that a friend made millions after his knockout of Ilia Topuria at UFC White House.

Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Casa Branca . Photo: X / UFC on Paramount

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Justin Gaethje left a friend with deep pockets after his victory at UFC Casa Branca , held in June 2026. The American entered the fight against Ilia Topuria as a big underdog according to betting houses, but defied expectations by defeating the former champion via technical knockout in the fourth round of the main event . The result surprised a large part of the public, but not his friend Grey, who bet heavily on his compatriot's triumph and secured a return of approximately R$ 7,8 million.

During an appearance on Von Miller's podcast, Gaethje revealed that Grey believed in his victory when the odds were against him. According to the fighter, his friend invested approximately US$375 (about R$2,1 million).

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“My friend Grey bet around US$375 (approximately R$2,1 million) when the odds were 6 to 1. Then he got back something around US$1,4 million (approximately R$7,8 million). Crazy,” said Justin Gaethje.

Justin Gaethje's victory at UFC Casa Branca was like something out of a movie.

Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Casa Branca . Photo: X / UFC on Paramount

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As if the octagon set up on the White House lawn, the underdog status, and the challenge of facing an undefeated opponent weren't enough, Justin Gaethje had to overcome a real battle to beat Ilia Topuria in true Rocky Balboa style.

After a balanced first round, with a slight advantage for the American, Topuria increased the pace in the second round, scored a knockdown, and came close to finishing the fight in the final moments of the period. However, the scenario changed completely after the break.

With the Spaniard showing signs of physical exhaustion, Gaethje began to impose his pressure game and punished his opponent's face with powerful blows, even fracturing his nose and causing damage to Topuria's orbital region.

The victory was confirmed in the break between the fourth and fifth rounds, when Aleksandre Topuria , Ilia's brother and coach, decided to throw in the towel and stop the fight. With that, Gaethje had his arm raised in one of the most remarkable victories of his career.

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