Topuria and Makhachev trade conflicting claims about White House fight

Illia Topuria claimed he was told he would fight Islam Makhachev at the White House event and went to bed knowing about the matchup, but hours before the announcement was informed that Makhachev suffered an injury and he would instead face Justin Gaethje. Topuria expressed confusion about why Makhachev doesn't want to fight him. Makhachev responded that he is tired of hearing fabrications from Topuria and his team, stating he agreed to the White House fight when offered, but was told the next day that Topuria requested a huge purse and was denied. Makhachev claimed Topuria's own manager confirmed this version, insisting Topuria refused the fight and knows it. The exchange highlights a public dispute about who actually turned down the potential matchup.