Islam Makhachev Fires Back at Ilia Topuria: 'We Both Know Who Chickened Out'
The verbal sparring between UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria has escalated significantly, with both fighters exchanging sharp accusations regarding a potential future bout.
Topuria, slated to headline the June 14 UFC event against interim Lightweight Champion Justin Gaethje, has openly expressed his preference to face Makhachev. He publicly accused Makhachev, who holds a high position in the pound-for-pound rankings, of deliberately avoiding a confrontation at the anticipated "White House" event.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Topuria claimed Makhachev consistently offers "excuses," citing a recent injury as the latest. "I always knew I would be part of the White House event," Topuria stated, recounting how he promptly agreed to fight Makhachev when the opportunity arose, even before official confirmation. However, the following day, he learned of Makhachev's reported injury, which led to Justin Gaethje stepping in. Topuria concluded his statement by saying, "Once again, someone else who will pay for Islam’s escape."
Makhachev swiftly responded to "El Matador," turning the tables by accusing Topuria of "chickening out" from their burgeoning rivalry.
In a direct retort on X, Makhachev wrote: "We both know who chickened out here 😉 You can cover your cowardice with nasty tweets, but don’t worry, one day you will get what you asked for! And your fat ass manager doesn't have to ask for billions to fight me, we’ll do it for free."
With Topuria currently ranked No. 2 in the UFC's pound-for-pound rankings, a potential clash between these two champions would undoubtedly be a highly anticipated event, pitting two of the sport's elite fighters against each other in their athletic primes.
Fresh materials — MMA
Dricus du Plessis Questions BMF Belt's Spirit After Oliveira's Dominant Win Over Holloway
Former UFC champion Dricus du Plessis has weighed in on the concept of the "Baddest Motherf**ker" (BMF) belt, offering criticism regarding a recent title bout. The UFC first unveiled the BMF belt in November 2019 at UFC 244, featuring Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal in its inaugural contest. Masvi
Mike Perry Confirms Nate Diaz Bout Marks His Largest Career Payday
Most Valuable Promotions recently revealed that Mike Perry, known as BKFC's 'King of Violence,' is set to face Nate Diaz, the originator of the UFC's 'BMF' belt, on the highly anticipated Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano fight card. Although the announcement was made only days ago, the organize
Joe Rogan Supports Ronda Rousey's UFC Criticisms: 'It puts pressure on the UFC'
Joe Rogan has voiced his support for Ronda Rousey's recent criticisms of the UFC, particularly regarding their fighter compensation and treatment. Rousey's strong opinions on the lack of respect shown to athletes through their pay structure have resonated with the popular podcast host. Whil
Alex Pereira Secures Landmark Multi-Fight Deal Ahead of Historic White House Bout
Alex Pereira, a prominent and highly active fighter in the UFC, frequently steps up for high-profile matchups, averaging four fights per year since his debut in November 2021. 'Poatan,' a former middleweight champion and two-time light heavyweight titleholder, has made an unprecedented move, vo
UFC Vegas 114: Emmett vs. Vallejos Official Weigh-In Results
The official weigh-ins for Saturday's UFC Fight Night event, held at Meta Apex in Las Vegas, took place on Friday. The highly anticipated main event features a featherweight clash between the No. 11 ranked Josh Emmett, who weighed in at 146 pounds, and the No. 14 ranked Kevin Vallejos, who regi
Colby Covington Slams UFC: "They've Done Me Dirty"
Colby Covington, known as 'Chaos,' has unleashed a furious tirade against the Ultimate Fighting Championship, expressing his profound dissatisfaction with his treatment by the organization. A seasoned veteran of mixed martial arts with nearly 12 years in the octagon and two more on the re