UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria has publicly accused Islam Makhachev of dodging a potential fight between them that was reportedly planned for the UFC White House event.
Topuria is currently preparing to defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250. However, prior to this, rumors suggested that “El Matador” might move up to the welterweight division to challenge Islam Makhachev.
Bouts between the two fighters have been discussed for a long time, but it appears an injury has prevented Makhachev from competing at the White House event. Ilia Topuria will now shift his focus to Justin Gaethje, aiming for a fourth consecutive spectacular knockout victory, having already dominated Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira.
In a recent social media post, Ilia Topuria expressed his strong opinions about both Makhachev and Gaethje, stating:
“Islam once again comes up with excuses. This time, it’s an injury. I always knew I would be part of the White House event. Even when the UFC told me at one point that they wouldn’t count on me for the event, I understood it was part of the negotiation. When they finally told me I would be on the White House card and mentioned Islam, I didn’t hesitate for a second to accept the fight. Although the fight hadn’t been officially confirmed yet, the White House card was going to be announced the next day. And when I woke up, I found out that Islam had gotten injured. Then Justin Gaethje appeared. Once again, someone else will pay for Islam’s escape. Both of their managers are bitches and ugly as hell. Justin, see you at the White House. I’m not someone who humiliates people. It will be quick. When you wake up, everything will already be over.”
Get ready, because Topuria carries a significant chip on his shoulder and might be gearing up for a career-defining performance.
