Makhachev Hits Back At Topuria Ducking Claims

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev hit back at lightweight champ Ilia Topuria, accusing him of “pulling out” of their potential fight due to greed.

While Topuria is set to headline UFC Freedom 250 against Justin Gaethje at the White House on June 14, Makhachev claims the original plan for the South Lawn event was an undisputed-vs-undisputed clash. Makhachev’s statement directly contradicts Topuria’s claim that the Dagestani champion ducked the fight using a hand injury as an excuse. According to Islam, he received the call and immediately accepted the fight at 170 lbs. However, after finding out how much he would make for the fight, Ilia chose to face Gaethje instead.

“I’m tired of hearing made-up stories from Topuria and his team. I got the call and accepted the fight at the White House. The next day, I was told he asked for an unrealistic purse. The UFC declined, and he pulled out. That’s it nothing more to it. Even his manager confirmed it. Ilia, stop talking. Every interview you give tells a different story. You pulled out, and you know it,” Makhachev said