UFC White House Card Shifts: Topuria to Face Gaethje, Makhachev Plans Delayed

The UFC’s planned event at the White House on June 14th has seen a major shakeup, with a potential superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria falling through. Topuria will now defend his lightweight title against interim champion Justin Gaethje in the main event.

Makhachev-Topuria Bout Scrapped

Talk of a bout between Makhachev and Topuria, two of the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters, had been building. However, the fight will not happen at the White House event. Makhachev expressed initial interest in the matchup, stating, “I like this idea,” about facing Topuria, as reported by Serbian outlet Telegraf. He added, “If the UFC wants [this fight], I know a lot of MMA fans want this fight, I’m ready.”

The circumstances surrounding Makhachev’s withdrawal remain unclear, with early speculation pointing to geopolitical complications. Makhachev later suggested the UFC shifted direction given that Topuria already had other opponents lined up.

White House Event Still Features Title Fights

Despite the change in the main event, the UFC White House card remains stacked. In addition to Topuria vs. Gaethje, Alex Pereira will face Ciryl Gane for an interim heavyweight title.

Makhachev’s Future Plans

Makhachev, the current welterweight champion, had been considering a move up in weight. He previously stated he had no interest in returning to lightweight, preferring to defend his title at 170 pounds. He is now awaiting a new opponent.

The UFC is currently considering potential opponents for Makhachev, including Kamaru Usman and Ian Garry. Welterweight contender Michael Morales has also expressed interest in challenging Makhachev, posting on Instagram, “And my eyes on gold. Sign it, champion Islam Makhachev.”

Ramadan Considerations

Makhachev also noted that the timing of the event allows him to resume training after observing Ramadan. He stated, “We have the Ramadan month, I’m not going to train for one month. After that, I will slowly begin my training camp, and I will be ready. White House [or] other dates, I will be ready.”

FAQ

• What is the new main event for the UFC White House card? Ilia Topuria will defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje.
• Why did the fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria fall through? The exact reasons are unclear, but Makhachev became unavailable for the proposed matchup.
• When is the UFC White House event? June 14th.

The UFC White House event promises to be a significant occasion for the sport, even with the change in the headline bout. Fans will be watching closely to see how the lightweight and heavyweight title pictures unfold.