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Islam Makhachev discusses Ilia Topuria salary demand that stalled fight talks

MMA Fighting • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

Islam Makhachev discusses Ilia Topuria salary demand that stalled fight talks

Summary

Islam Makhachev revealed that negotiations for a fight with Ilia Topuria fell apart over a substantial salary demand. Makhachev stated that Topuria’s team sought around $20 million, which the UFC declined. The fight was speculated to materialize before Topuria defended his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at the recent UFC event. Makhachev affirmed he was initially open to the fight without asking for a higher purse. The welterweight champion is set to defend his title against Ian Machado Garry on August 15 in Philadelphia.

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Status Watch

•Makhachev cites $20 million salary demand from Topuria's team.
•Negotiations stalled before Topuria's fight against Gaethje.
•Makhachev's next fight is against Ian Machado Garry on August 15.
•Both fighters have blamed each other for the stalled negotiations.

Latest Updates

1:00 PMMMA Fighting — Islam Makhachev reveals Ilia Topuria salary demand that caused fight to fall through - MMA Fighting
1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev reveals Ilia Topuria salary demand that caused fight to fall through

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