Dana White Responds to Rumors of Canceled Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria Fight on June 14

Reports recently circulated indicating that the UFC had planned a major bout between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria for June 14, to be held on the South Lawn of the White House. These claims suggested the fight was a confirmed agreement until the promotion was informed last Friday that Makhachev would not be able to participate in the proposed White House event.

However, the official lineup for UFC Freedom 250 has already been unveiled. This card features Ilia Topuria, known as "El Matador," and Justin Gaethje headlining in a lightweight title unification bout. Islam Makhachev, the current P4P king, is not part of this unique event.

UFC President Dana White Clarifies Makhachev vs. Topuria White House Fight Rumors

During a post-fight press conference for Zuffa Boxing 04, UFC President Dana White firmly stated that a fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria was never scheduled for the White House event. White addressed the speculation directly, refuting the widespread rumors.

White also revealed that Makhachev is currently recovering from a hand injury, making his return date for the first defense of his 155-pound lightweight championship uncertain. He further added that both Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria were informed only in the final moments before the UFC Freedom 250 fight list announcement that they would be competing at the White House.

“That’s not true. It was never Islam vs. Topuria. Don’t worry about what fights are being made, we announce which ones are made and which ones will be happening… He [Islam Makhachev] has some hand issues. I don’t know how serious the hand issues are and how long that will keep him out. But he is injured.”

White did not disclose the specific fight that was reportedly canceled on Friday, which was originally intended to be part of the June 14 card.

Adding to the confusing timeline, Justin Gaethje mentioned in an interview with the UFC that he was initially told last Thursday that he would not be fighting at the White House. However, just one day later, on Friday, he received notification that he might indeed be part of the event.