Ilia Topuria claims he was told hours before the White House event announcement that he would fight Islam Makhachev, but was later informed Makhachev withdrew due to injury and he would face Gaethje instead. Makhachev disputes this, stating he accepted the fight but was told Topuria demanded an excessive purse and was rejected. Makhachev insists Topuria's manager confirmed this version, accusing Topuria of lying about the situation. The exchange highlights an ongoing dispute between the two champions over who was actually responsible for the fight falling through.
