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 a fight against Islam Makhachev, which is why he chose to face Justin Gaethje instead. According to Dariush, Topuria viewed Gaethje as a fight he could make money from while having a much simpler game plan to prepare. Dariush suggests it is significantly easier to develop tactical approaches against Gaethje compared to the technical challenges Makhachev presents. The statement reflects Dariush's analysis of Topuria's strategic decision-making in opponent selection.