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Was Makhachev Vs. Topuria A Possibility?

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Apr 9, 2026 1:41 PM ET

UFC CEO Dana White has set the record straight on why a fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria never happened.

The friction reached a boiling point after Topuria publicly accused the welterweight champion of using a hand injury to duck him. The Dagestani champion argued that he was willing to make the quick turnaround to secure a second belt, but blamed Topuria’s management for “sabotaging” the negotiations with “astronomical” money requests. White clarified that the promotion never formally moved to book it.

“I’m tired of hearing made-up stories from Topuria and his team. I got the call and accepted the fight at the White House. The next day, I was told he asked for an unrealistic purse. The UFC declined, and he pulled out. That’s it nothing more to it. Even his manager confirmed it. Ilia, stop talking. Every interview you give tells a different story. You pulled out, and you know it,” Makhachev said

“No, that’s not true,” White said

The Timeline

Proposed Bout	Official Bout	Status
Makhachev vs. Topuria	Topuria vs. Gaethje	Officially Cancelled / Never Booked
Welterweight Title	Lightweight Unification	Main Event
Reason for Failure	Hand Injury (Makhachev)	Active & Confirmed
Purse Disputes?	Unconfirmed (White Denies)	Both Fighters Signed

Ian Machado Garry has also had his say on Islam Makhachev. Garry argued that Makhachev is neglecting legitimate welterweight challengers. Garry dismissed Makhachev’s lengthy explanations as a diversion tactic. Garry has officially challenged Makhachev to prove his fitness by booking their title fight for UFC 330 in August.

“So your hand is fine then? No more excuses see you [in] August,” Garry said

And yet, there are other names who are also chasing Islam.

Rank	Fighter	Status
Champion	Islam Makhachev	Sidelined (Hand)
#1	Ian Machado Garry	Ready / Calling for Title
#3	Kamaru Usman	Inactive