UFC's Bruce Buffer flames Jimmy Butler after allegations of bad behavior in casino: "Wasn't a real poker player"
Jimmy Butler made headlines with Neymar Jr. and Ryan Garcia back in June when they competed in a high-stakes celebrity poker game in Los Angeles. However, Butler allegedly was not on his best behavior, and UFC announcer Bruce Buffer has called him out.
In a video uploaded by @WorldWideWob on X, formerly known as Twitter, Hustler Casino Live co-producer Nick Vertucci went off on Butler for his alleged bad behavior during his appearance in June. Vertucci told the story of how the Miami Heat star had a "primadonna" attitude, and Buffer, who was among the guests on a new game, was upset by it.
"He wasn't a real poker player, I can tell you that much," Buffer said in response to Vertucci's story.
Nick Vertucci even dared Jimmy Butler's fans to clip his comments about him. Vertucci also confirmed that Butler won't get invited to another Hustler Casino Live ever again due to his behavior toward the people and staff at the event.
Butler was joined by other celebrities such as boxers Ryan Garcia and Chris Eubank Jr., YouTuber-streamer Ninja, social media influencer Dan Bilzerian, poker player Alan Keating, comedian-vlogger Jon Vlogs, footballer Neymar and Pedro Velasco, who is close with Neymar and Butler.
Bilzerian was unhappy with Butler after the NBA star left the poker table after doubling his winnings. He seemingly didn't give the other participants the chance to win their money back, which made the controversial figure upset.
"That basketball player wanted to leave so bad once he doubled up. He was ready to hit the f**king door. ... That was the craziest thing I've ever seen. The guy sat there for two hours and watched poker," Bilzerian said.
Jimmy Butler has been in trade rumors this offseason
Jimmy Butler has been the face of the Miami Heat since 2019 and has embodied the "Heat Culture" that has made the franchise successful. Butler has led the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023. However, the 34-year-old swingman was in the trade rumors this offseason.
According to CBS Sports, one of the main reasons why the Heat are contemplating a potential Butler trade is money. He is due an extension and reportedly wants a two-year, max contract, which would give him at least four more years in Miami.
Team president Pat Riley is open to giving Butler an extension, but can't see him getting the max due to his durability. The six-time NBA All-Star has missed 110 regular-season games since 2019 and was out for the entire first-round matchup against the Boston Celtics this year.