Ilia Topuria says Islam Makhachev isn’t ducking him as he shares new theory on failed fight

There has been a lot of finger-pointing since the biggest fight in MMA fell through.

Ilia Topuria was reportedly in talks to face Islam Makhachev at the UFC White House event.

However, the lightweight champion was instead matched with interim titleholder Justin Gaethje on the unique card scheduled for June 14.

Ilia Topuria: The UFC doesn’t want me to fight Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight belt against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15.

Ilia Topuria was asked why his fight with Khabib Nurmagomedov’s protege isn’t happening next.

“I don’t think that it’s because of him that the fight is not happening,” he told VicBlends.

“I truly believe that it’s the UFC that doesn’t want to make it happen.”

Topuria insists he doesn’t need to fight Makhachev to solidify himself as an all-time UFC great.

“For me personally, it wouldn’t change anything,” he added.

“I don’t hate Islam Makhachev. I don’t have anything personal against him. He’s achieved great things in the sport, he’s a double champ like me, and if you do me and Islam, it will be one of the biggest fights in UFC history.

“If that fight never happens, I will be happy and proud of myself anyways. I don’t need Islam to feel proud about myself.”