Ilia Topuria claimed he was initially told he would fight Islam Makhachev at the White House event, but hours before the announcement, he was informed that Makhachev had suffered an injury and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Topuria expressed confusion over why Makhachev doesn't want to fight him. Makhachev responded by stating he agreed to the White House bout when offered, but was then told Topuria requested an enormous purse and was refused. Makhachev accused Topuria of lying, noting even Topuria's manager confirmed the story. The exchange has intensified the rivalry between the two champions.
