UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has publicly criticized Islam Makhachev for missing a potential bout at the upcoming UFC White House event. Topuria claims Makhachev cited an injury as an excuse, leading to a matchup with Justin Gaethje instead. The event is set for June 14, 2026.
Ilia Topuria, the current UFC lightweight champion, expressed frustration over Islam Makhachev's absence from the UFC White House card during a social media post on March 10, 2026. Topuria, who vacated his featherweight title to compete at lightweight, had been pushing for a superfight with Makhachev, the former lightweight champion. Makhachev moved up to welterweight and captured the 170-pound belt by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November 2025. He now awaits his first title defense.
Topuria stated that discussions included Makhachev as a possible opponent for the White House main event, but an injury sidelined him. "Once again, Islam comes up with an excuse," Topuria wrote. "This time it’s an injury." He added that he was always aware of his involvement in the event, even amid negotiations. "I always knew I would be part of the White House event," Topuria explained. "Even when the UFC told me at one point that they wouldn’t count on me for the event, I knew it was part of the negotiation. When they finally told me I would be on the White House card, they mentioned Islam and I didn’t hesitate for a second to accept the fight."
However, the next day brought news of Makhachev's injury, resulting in interim champion Justin Gaethje stepping in for a title unification bout on June 14. UFC CEO Dana White has said that neither Makhachev nor Gaethje was originally planned to headline the event. Gaethje confirmed he learned of his participation only upon the official announcement.
Topuria, aiming to secure a third UFC title, dismissed concerns and warned Gaethje. "Once again, someone else who will pay for Islam’s escape," he said. "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."
