Ilia Topuria is not happy with Islam Makhachev after the former lightweight champion missed a chance to fight at the UFC White House on June 14. Topuria is now set to face interim champion Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title.
Topuria took to social media to express his frustration with Makhachev’s absence.
Topuria slams Makhachev
“Once again, Islam comes up with an excuse,” Topuria wrote. “This time it’s an injury.”
Topuria explained that Makhachev had been discussed as a potential opponent for his UFC White House title fight. He says he only learned about the change at the same time as the public.
“I always knew I would be part of the White House event,” Topuria added. “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. Even though the fight hadn’t been officially confirmed yet, the White House card was going to be announced the next day.
“And when I woke, I found out that Islam had gotten injured. And then Justin Gaethje appeared.”
Once again Islam comes up with an excuse. This time it’s an injury.
I always knew I would be part of the White House event. 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…— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) March 10, 2026
UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that neither Makhachev nor Gaethje were originally scheduled for the main event. Gaethje also revealed he didn’t know he would be on the card until the official announcement.
Makhachev holds the UFC welterweight title after defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November 2025, but has not had a confirmed return date. Topuria has previously held the featherweight title before moving to lightweight and is aiming to unify the belt at the White House.
“Once again, someone else who will pay for Islam’s escape,” Topuria wrote. “Both of their manager is a bitch and also ugly as hell.
“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.”
Topuria’s comments make it clear he is frustrated with Makhachev but fully focused on the UFC White House showdown with Gaethje.
