Topuria and Makhachev dispute who turned down White House fight announcement

Ilia Topuria stated that hours before the White House fight card announcement, he was told he would face Islam Makhachev, but was later informed Makhachev sustained an injury and he would fight Justin Gaethje instead. Topuria questioned why Makhachev does not want to fight him. Makhachev responded by saying he is tired of Topuria's fabrications and that he accepted the White House bout, but was told the next day that Topuria demanded a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev stated that Topuria turned down the fight, and that even Topuria's manager confirmed this version. The exchange highlights ongoing tension between the two champions. Both fighters accuse each other of avoiding the superfight.