Topuria and Makhachev clash over White House event fight claims

Ilia Topuria claimed he was told he would face Islam Makhachev at the White House event, but hours before the announcement Makhachev allegedly withdrew due to injury and Topuria was matched with Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev disputed this, stating he accepted the fight but was told Topuria demanded an enormous purse and was refused. Makhachev accused Topuria and his team of lying, noting even Topuria's manager confirmed the purse refusal. The exchange continued late into the night, with a fan telling Makhachev to sleep at 4 AM, to which he cryptically replied "today this is not him." Both fighters are accusing the other of dishonesty regarding who turned down the potential matchup.