Islam Makhachev blasts Ilia Topuria for 'pulling out' of proposed White House bout, reveals reason in a fiery social media post

Islam Makhachev has publicly criticized Ilia Topuria for allegedly pulling out of a proposed high-profile bout at the White House. In a detailed social media statement, Makhachev claimed the fight was offered but Topuria chose not to move forward, sparking frustration from the lightweight champion. However, Dana White later confirmed that Ilia Topuria will headline the promotion’s White House event, facing interim champion Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 in June. The event is set to take place on the South Lawn of the White House, making it the first-ever professional MMA card to be held at the historic venue.

After the Topuria vs Gaethje fight was announced, reports emerged that Makhachev is currently dealing with a hand injury, delaying his expected return to the Octagon indefinitely. Topuria later claimed in an interview that Makhachev and his team declined to fight him at the proposed White House event after extended negotiations.



However, Makhachev has pushed back on that narrative, insisting that Topuria's version of events is inaccurate and does not reflect what actually happened behind the scenes.


"I'm tired of hearing made-up stories from Topuria and his team," Makhachev shared his side in a fiery post on X.

"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," Makhachev continued. "Ilia, stop talking. Every interview you give tells a different story. You pulled out, and you know it."

As for Makhachev's return, his manager Ali Abdelaziz has indicated that talks are ongoing for a possible July comeback against an opponent yet to be finalized, according to BJPENN.COM. However, while plans for his return are taking shape, the rivalry between Makhachev and Topuria continues to intensify, with both fighters trading tension outside the Octagon.