Ilia Topuria claims he was informed hours before the White House event announcement that he would fight Islam Makhachev, but was then told Makhachev was injured and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. He questioned why Makhachev does not want to fight him. Islam Makhachev responded that he accepted the White House bout when offered, but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev accused Topuria of lying and said Topuria's own manager confirmed the story. The exchange has sparked debate among fans about who is telling the truth.
