Topuria and Makhachev dispute White House event fight cancellation

Ilia Topuria claims he was originally scheduled to fight Islam Makhachev at the White House event but Makhachev pulled out with an injury hours before the announcement. Topuria stated he went to bed knowing he would fight Makhachev, only to be told he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev responded by calling Topuria's claims fabrications, stating he agreed to the White House fight but was told Topuria requested a massive fee and was turned down. Makhachev insisted Topuria's own manager confirmed this version of events. The exchange highlights ongoing tension between the UFC featherweight and lightweight divisions. Both fighters accuse each other of avoiding the matchup.