Ilia Topuria claimed he was told he would fight Islam Makhachev at the White House card announcement but was informed hours before that Makhachev was injured and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Topuria questioned why Makhachev does not want to fight him. Makhachev responded by calling Topuria's version fabricated, stating he agreed to the White House fight but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev claimed Topuria refused the fight and even Topuria's manager confirmed this. The exchange highlights ongoing tension between the lightweight and featherweight champions. Additional notes mention Jorge Masvidal and Bo Nickal backing Sean Strickland against Khamzat Chimaev, with Masvidal criticizing Chimaev's wrestling style.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
