Overview
- UFC confirms Ilia Topuria will face interim champion Justin Gaethje in a lightweight title unifier on June 14 at the White House’s Freedom 250 event.
- Topuria posted on X that Makhachev "came up with an excuse" and cited an injury after he was told Islam was an option for the card.
- Makhachev responded on X accusing Topuria of chickening out and said he would fight him "for free."
- Dana White denied that a Topuria–Makhachev fight was ever booked and confirmed Makhachev has hand issues with no timetable for return.
- Topuria’s manager Malki Kawa said Islam talks were only discussions before overnight negotiations reshaped the lineup, with reports noting Gaethje and Makhachev share representation at Dominance MMA.