A proposed super-fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria for a planned June event did not materialise amid conflicting explanations, with UFC president Dana White disputing claims that financial demands were the cause.
Topuria had suggested that an injury to Makhachev prevented the bout from being finalised, while Makhachev indicated that negotiations broke down due to Topuria asking for too much money, creating uncertainty around the failed booking for the White House card.
White addressed the situation directly during an appearance on Adin Ross’ Kick stream, stating, “That’s not true,” White said, according to the stream, rejecting the suggestion that Topuria’s financial demands halted the fight.
Further context around the negotiations emerged from Topuria’s manager, Malki Kawa, who previously said they were given a choice of opponents and initially pursued the Makhachev fight before talks shifted.
White also confirmed that Makhachev is currently sidelined, noting that the lightweight champion is dealing with a hand injury and is not expected to return until August, ruling him out of competition in June.
As a result, Topuria is now set to defend his title against Justin Gaethje, while the possibility of a future bout between the two champions remains open depending on Makhachev’s recovery timeline and renewed negotiations.
