Topuria and Makhachev contradict each other on White House fight negotiations

Ilia Topuria claims he was scheduled to fight Islam Makhachev at the White House event but Makhachev pulled out hours before the announcement due to injury, leading to a fight with Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev disputes this version, stating that he agreed to the fight but Topuria demanded an excessive purse and was denied, with Topuria's manager allegedly confirming this version. The conflicting accounts have created controversy over who actually turned down the superfight. Makhachev addressed the situation at 4 AM, with fans noting the unusual timing. Both fighters continue to publicly contradict each other's narratives about the failed matchup. Meanwhile, Jorge Masvidal and Orion Cosce backed Sean Strickland over Khamzat Chimaev, with Masvidal dismissing Chimaev's wrestling style and Cosce refusing to comment due to dislike of Chimaev.