Special-Edition, Never Released Puma ONE Buffon 2018 World Cup Boots Leaked

Today we have a funny one for you. Just last night we received pictures of what was supposed to be a special-edition football boot from Puma to celebrate what would have been Gianlugi Buffon's sixth consecutive appearance on football's biggest stage.

Taking part in six World Cup would have made Buffon the sole leader in this statistic, ahead of Germany's Lothar Matthäus, and Antonio Carbajal and Rafael Márquez of Mexico. Thanks to @musleramario for sending these in, much appreciated.

Special-Edition Puma ONE Italy 2018 World Cup Boots

This picture shows the Puma Italy Buffon 2018 World Cup special-edition boots which will never be officially released.

A very interesting look, the cleats combine a golden upper with a black collar. An array of ridges can be seen running across the upper, especially in the forefoot part, unlike on any other Puma ONE boot.

The sole plate is metallic gold. Black logos complete the design, with the main Puma Formstripe featuring a white border. C.U.I.T, the acronym that also appears on Buffon's gloves, is written across the heel. It stands for Commando Ultrà Indian Trips, the hard-core group of Carrarese fans.

Most likely already planned as a very limited edition from Puma in the first place, the fact that these boots likely never went into full production means that they are some of the most rare items football boot collectors can get their hands on today.

Do you like what Puma created to celebrate Buffon's record-breaking World Cup that wasn't to be? Comment below.