It won't be Ilia Topuria! Islam Makhachev reveals information about UFC fights at the White House; understand why.

Islam makhachev in victory against Renato Moicano No. UFC 311. Photo: Instagram/UFC Espanol

With one of the most anticipated events in the history of MMA approaching, Islam makhachev He is one of the leading candidates to secure a spot to compete in the White House in June. However, it is very likely that the Russian will not have it. Ilia Topuria On the other side of the octagon. According to the current welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg), the offer is no longer on the table.

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Although he recently offered to face the Georgian/Spanish fighter, the current number one ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC ruled out the possibility, stating that Ilia already has an opponent for the next round.

“There will certainly be no fight with Topuria at the White House, he already has an opponent,” the champion said in an interview with Match TV on Wednesday (18).

???? Islam makhachev confirms he will not be fighting Ilia Topuria, as Topuria already has an opponent scheduled.

“There definitely won't be a fight with Topuria at the White House, he already has an opponent.”

Earlier, Islam said he was ready to fight Topuria or compete at the… pic.twitter.com/H97FGzaXjg

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 18, 2026

Topuria and Makhachev are two of the best names in the UFC.

Ilia Topuria e Islam makhachev are big names in the UFC. photo: SUPER FIGHTS Montage

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Ranked first and second in the Ultimate's pound-for-pound rankings, a duel between Ilia and Makhachev has been speculated several times, mainly by the Georgian/Spanish fighter. While the Russian defended his lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) and moved to welterweight (up to 77,1 kg) to become a champion in two weight classes, El Matador followed a similar path, capturing the featherweight crown (up to 65,7 kg) and then repeating the feat in the UFC's most populous division.