Ilia Topuria claimed he was told hours before the White House card announcement that he would fight Islam Makhachev, but the bout was canceled due to Makhachev's injury. Topuria stated he went to sleep expecting the fight but was informed later he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev responded by calling Topuria's claims fabrications, stating that he agreed to the White House fight when offered. Makhachev said UFC told him the next day that Topuria requested an enormous fee and was denied, adding that even Topuria's manager confirmed this version. The exchange highlights ongoing tension between the two champions over who is avoiding whom.
