Dariush: Topuria chose Gaethje over Makhachev due to easier game plan

Beneil Dariush believes Ilia Topuria selected Justin Gaethje as his opponent instead of Islam Makhachev because it was strategically easier to prepare for. Dariush stated that Topuria looked at the Gaethje fight as a money-making opportunity. According to Dariush, preparing a clear game plan for Gaethje is much simpler than developing one for Makhachev. The comments suggest Dariush believes Topuria avoided the more challenging stylistic matchup with the lightweight champion. Dariush's analysis implies Topuria made a calculated business and competitive decision in choosing his opponent.