Ilia Topuria claimed he was told hours before the White House event announcement that he would fight Islam Makhachev, but was later informed that Makhachev was injured and he would face Gaethje instead. Topuria questioned why Makhachev doesn't want the fight. Islam Makhachev responded that he agreed to the White House bout when offered, but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev stated that Topuria's own manager confirmed this version of events. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the two champions. A fan noted the late-night timing of Makhachev's response, to which Islam replied it wasn't him posting.
