Topuria and Makhachev Exchange Accusations Over Failed White House Fight

Ilia Topuria claims he was told hours before the White House event announcement that he would fight Islam Makhachev, but shortly before the official reveal, he was informed Makhachev was injured and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Topuria stated he doesn't understand why Makhachev avoids fighting him. Makhachev responded that Topuria and his team are lying, saying he agreed to the White House fight when offered, but was told the next day that Topuria demanded a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev urged Topuria to stop lying, claiming even Topuria's manager confirmed this version. Additionally, Jorge Masvidal and Orion Cosce backed Sean Strickland against Khamzat Chimaev, with Masvidal criticizing Chimaev's wrestling-heavy style. Dricus Du Plessis named Israel Adesanya as his most technical opponent and Sean Strickland and Brad Tavares as his toughest, notably excluding Chimaev.