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Islam Makhachev fight with Ilia Topuria derailed by $20 million request

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 2:00 PM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Islam Makhachev fight with Ilia Topuria derailed by $20 million request

Summary

Islam Makhachev will not face Ilia Topuria due to Topuria's reported demand for a $20 million purse. Makhachev stated that while he accepted the UFC's offer for the fight, the promotion later informed his team that the fight was unlikely because of the financial request. Topuria, set to defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom Fight 250, previously expressed interest in becoming the first UFC fighter with belts in three divisions. The situation is noteworthy as Topuria's asking price comes following substantial payouts to other fighters, including Jon Jones.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Makhachev claims Topuria asked for $20 million to fight.
•Topuria will defend his title against Gaethje at UFC Freedom Fight 250.
•Makhachev accepted the fight, but UFC later reported it was unlikely.
•This demand follows significant purses paid to other fighters in the UFC.

Latest Updates

2:00 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria Fight Booking Failed After One Fighter Asked For $20 Million?

What they're saying

"
Islam Makhachev claims he isn’t Ilia Topuria’s next opponent because the current lightweight champion requested a massive payday from the […]
— Yahoo Sports

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