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Islam Makhachev claims Ilia Topuria's $20 million demand blocked White House fight

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 8:00 PM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Islam Makhachev claims Ilia Topuria's $20 million demand blocked White House fight

Summary

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria were set to headline UFC Freedom 250 at the White House on June 18, 2026. Makhachev contends that a $20 million purse request from Topuria halted the bout, contradicting previous reports of an injury sidelining him. UFC officials have since shifted focus to a fight between Topuria and Justin Gaethje instead. Makhachev asserts he was ready to compete and did not seek any heightened financial demands. The event will still see Topuria unify his lightweight title with Gaethje, while Makhachev anticipates defending his title later this year.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Makhachev was set to fight Topuria on June 18, 2026.
•Makhachev claims Topuria requested $20 million to fight.
•UFC opted for a Topuria vs. Gaethje matchup instead.
•Makhachev states he had no injury preventing him from fighting.
•Topuria will unify his lightweight title with Gaethje this Sunday.

Latest Updates

8:00 PMYahoo Sports — What Injury? Islam Makhachev Claims Ilia Topuria’s $20 Million Purse Demand Spoiled White House Fight

What they're saying

"
It was supposed to be Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria atop Sunday’s UFC Freedom 250 fight card from the White House South Lawn, but miscommunication about an injury and a $20 million fight purse demand ultimately got in the way. This weekend’s massive event in Washington D.C. was originally expected to feature the long-awaited superfight […]
— Yahoo Sports

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