Topps Unveils Its First UFC Debut Patches: Are Those Fighters Worth the Chase?
Updated: Jul 10, 2025
Topps has just launched its first-ever UFC debut patches—one-of-one cards that are more than just collectibles; they’re tokens of a fighter’s journey and potential for greatness. With only one of each available, these patches serve as the ultimate proof of a fighter’s entry into the UFC’s elite circle.
So, who are the fighters set to mark their debut with these special patches? Meet Michael Aswell Jr., the 24-year-old lightweight from the Fury Championship scene, with a 9-2-0 record. He caught attention last year when he fought in Dana White’s Contender Series but lost by decision to Bogdan Grad. UPDATE on 1st of June: Michael Aswell Jr. lost his UFC Debut by Unanimous Decision to Bolaji Oki at UFC Las Vegas .
Meanwhile, Andreas Gustafsson, the Swedish welterweight nicknamed “Bane,” is 34 and boasts an 11-2-0 record. He made his mark last year with a win over Pat Pytlik at Contender Series. Both fighters are set to make their UFC debut this weekend, June 1st, at the Las Vegas event. UPDATE on 1st of June: Andreas debut fight has been cancelled after Trevin Giles injured himself before the weight-ins. Another hold back for Andreas after he withdrew from UFC Vegas 101 last summer following a neck injury.
The big question: Are these fighters worth the chase? Before jumping to any hype or speculation about their future success, owning one of these debut patches could be the most meaningful collectible for long-term fans and collectors. They’re the first of their kind—potentially part of a collection that could grow in value as their careers unfold.
In the UFC market, the prices of modern cards and rookies can drop sharply after their first losses or if they fail to excite fans through sensational wins. For instance, fighters like Diego Lopes or Alex Pereira quickly gained hype through highlight-reel KOs and high-impact fights, fueling short-term interest. But for fighters like Michael—who already has a setback—and Andreas, who’s 34 and still building, the long game is different. For these collectors, an active fighter with a solid track record and recent fights is more valuable. Unfortunately, both Andreas and Michael haven't fought in about nine months, which can influence their hype and market perception.
These debut patches aren’t just a collectible— they symbolize the start of a fighter’s journey into the sport’s top tier. With only one card of each, they become tangible proof of a moment in time—something that true fans and long-term collectors will want to hold onto forever. Because in the end, in UFC collecting, it’s not just about the fight—it’s about owning a piece of history.
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