Topuria and Makhachev dispute who turned down White House fight

Ilia Topuria claims he was informed he would fight Islam Makhachev and that the bout would be announced at the White House event. However, hours before the announcement, Topuria says he was told Makhachev sustained an injury and he would instead face Justin Gaethje. Topuria expressed confusion about why Makhachev does not want to fight him. In response, Makhachev denied the account, stating that he accepted the White House fight but was told Topuria requested a massive fee and was subsequently declined. Makhachev accused Topuria and his team of lying, noting that even Topuria's manager confirmed the financial dispute. The back-and-forth has intensified the rivalry between the lightweight and featherweight champions.