The main card for the White House event has finally been announced, and it has resulted in a series of debates. In the main event, Ilia Topuria will take on the current interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje . However, for months, fans wanted the 'El Matador' to fight the UFC pound-for-pound number one, Islam Makhachev .
Before the official announcement, several rumors circulated online suggesting Islam Makhachev avoided a potential fight against Ilia Topuria. Recently, Topuria took to X, claiming Makhachev used a hand injury excuse to avoid fighting him.
The accusation quickly gained traction online with fans debating whether the situation involved genuine injury concerns or simple strategic matchmaking decisions. Now, Topuria's manager has addressed the controversy publicly, revealing several behind-the-scenes discussions that occurred during early negotiations.
We were focused on getting an Islam fight. Then on Wednesday I was asked, 'Would you guys want to do [Islam] or [Gaethje]?' We said absolutely [Islam]. They gave us a number, and we said absolutely not. After that, we didn't hear anything. The money that was offered was small — it was more like, 'If this fight could happen, here are the numbers.' And we were like, not at those numbers.
Malki Kawa via Anik & Florian PodcastMakhachev also responded to the accusations, claiming Ilia Topuria's manager demanded higher payment, ultimately causing the fight negotiations between both camps to collapse. He even issued a warning saying he would gladly destroy the current lightweight champion for free if the opportunity came.
The rivalry between the two fighters has intensified over several months with constant exchanges, fueling anticipation among fans expecting a massive lightweight clash. Interestingly, both fighters eventually moved divisions and captured belts, achieving double champion status and further strengthening their star power.
Topuria then criticized Makhachev's latest performance against Jack Della Maddalena, calling the fight boring due to heavy wrestling control throughout. Meanwhile, Topuria delivered a spectacular knockout victory over Charles Oliveira, extending his dangerous streak to three consecutive knockout wins.
Against Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria enters as the favorite, with another knockout potentially cementing his growing reputation and legendary status. For Gaethje, however, this fight represents perhaps the final opportunity to capture undisputed gold after previously losing two championship fights.
Both fighters are known for aggressive striking styles and prefer to keep exchanges standing, something fans desperately want after several underwhelming main events. Gaethje has openly claimed he possesses the power and timing necessary to knock out Topuria within the first rounds.
Meanwhile, Topuria likely welcomes a striking battle, trusting his precise boxing combinations and knockout accuracy against aggressive opponents. Against Islam Makhachev, however, the matchup might have looked different due to relentless wrestling and strategic grappling pressure.
Such a stylistic clash could have produced a far less predictable contest, potentially making it perfect for a historic White House event. Nevertheless, following recent revelations, fans are now reacting strongly to the latest comments made publicly by Topuria's manager.
As expected, many fans pointed out Ilia Topuria's contradictory statements and not fighting Makhachev for less money. Many also backed the fighter and blamed the promotion for not giving their biggest stars the money that they deserve. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see whether these two superstars will ever share the Octagon anytime soon.
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