Beneil Dariush says Topuria chose Gaethje over Makhachev due to easier prep

Beneil Dariush offered his analysis that Ilia Topuria selected a fight with Justin Gaethje instead of Islam Makhachev because he viewed it as more financially lucrative and strategically simpler. Dariush believes Topuria lacked a clear game plan for facing Makhachev, making the matchup with Gaethje a more appealing option. He stated that preparing a fight plan for Gaethje is much easier compared to the challenge of strategizing against Makhachev. The comments suggest Topuria made a calculated decision based on both financial and tactical considerations.