Topuria and Makhachev dispute conflicting accounts of cancelled fight

Ilia Topuria claimed he went to bed knowing he would fight Islam Makhachev after being told the bout would be announced at the White House event, only to be informed hours before the announcement that Makhachev was injured and he would face Justin Gaethje instead. Islam Makhachev responded by stating he agreed to the White House fight when offered, but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge fee and was turned down, accusing Topuria of lying about the situation. Makhachev noted that even Topuria's manager confirmed this version of events. The exchange highlights ongoing tension between the featherweight and lightweight champions. A fan commenting at 4 AM prompted Makhachev to clarify it wasn't his manager Ali Abdelaziz posting at that hour.