Topuria and Makhachev contradict each other over White House fight offer

Ilia Topuria claimed he was initially told he would fight Islam Makhachev and that the bout would be announced at a White House event, but hours before the announcement, he was informed Makhachev was injured and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev disputed this account, stating he accepted the fight offer but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge fee and was denied, resulting in Topuria refusing the bout. Makhachev accused Topuria and his team of lying, noting that even Topuria's manager confirmed this version. The conflicting accounts highlight ongoing tension between the lightweight and featherweight champions regarding a potential superfight.