Dariush: Topuria chose Gaethje over Makhachev due to lack of clear plan

Beneil Dariush believes Ilia Topuria did not have a clear game plan for a potential fight against Islam Makhachev, which influenced his decision to face Justin Gaethje instead. Dariush suggests that Topuria viewed the Gaethje matchup as a more lucrative opportunity. He also noted that it is much easier to prepare a strategic plan against Gaethje than against Makhachev. The comments suggest Topuria may have opted for the stylistically more favorable fight from a preparation standpoint.