Beneil Dariush says Topuria chose Gaethje over Makhachev due to easier game plan

Beneil Dariush believes Ilia Topuria did not have a clear plan for fighting Islam Makhachev, which led him to choose a bout with Justin Gaethje instead. According to Dariush, Topuria viewed the Gaethje fight as an opportunity to earn money while facing an opponent for whom it is much easier to prepare a game plan compared to Makhachev. Dariush's comments suggest strategic considerations played a major role in Topuria's matchmaking decision. The statement implies Topuria may have avoided the greater tactical challenge posed by Makhachev.