Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria exchange accusations over failed White House fight

A public dispute has erupted between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria regarding a failed matchup that was intended for the White House event. Topuria claimed he went to sleep expecting to fight Makhachev at the White House card, only to be informed hours before the announcement that Islam had sustained an injury and he would instead face Justin Gaethje. The Georgian champion expressed confusion about why Makhachev doesn't want to fight him. Makhachev responded by stating he's tired of hearing fabrications from Topuria and his team, claiming he accepted the fight when offered but was told the next day that Topuria demanded an enormous fee and was denied. Islam accused Topuria of refusing the bout and lying about the circumstances, noting even Topuria's manager confirmed this version of events. The exchange reveals continued tension and unresolved conflict between the two champions regarding their potential superfight.