Islam Makhachev reveals fresh twist in Ilia Topuria saga as reported $20 million demand and failed UFC fight return to spotlight

A proposed UFC super fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria reportedly fell apart because of money. According to a post shared by Champ RDS on X, Makhachev claimed that Topuria asked for $20 million to accept a planned fight at a UFC event connected to the White House.

Makhachev said he agreed to the offer immediately and did not ask for any additional payment, but the matchup never moved forward.The claim has quickly become a talking point among MMA fans. Many had hoped to see Makhachev and Topuria meet inside the Octagon, especially after both fighters built strong reputations as champions. Instead, the fight reportedly stalled during negotiations. Makhachev’s comments have now added a new layer to the discussion, with fans debating whether money, timing, or other factors were responsible for one of the sport’s most talked-about fights not becoming reality.

Islam Makhachev claims Ilia Topuria’s team rejected offer despite higher purse being available

Speaking about the failed matchup, Islam Makhachev said he accepted the proposed deal right away. According to the comments shared by Champ RDS, the lightweight champion claimed he was willing to move ahead without making extra demands.Makhachev also suggested that the issue came from the other side of the negotiations. He said Ilia Topuria and his team turned down the offer after asking for $20 million. According to Makhachev, that decision ultimately prevented the fight from happening.

What has added even more attention to the story is Makhachev’s claim that Topuria later accepted similar money for a different fight. He stated that Topuria eventually agreed to face Justin Gaethje under financial terms that were not far from the amount discussed earlier.As expected, the comments sparked immediate reactions across the MMA community. Some fans sided with Makhachev and argued that a champion should not miss a major opportunity over contract demands.

Others pointed out that fighters have every right to negotiate for what they believe they are worth, especially in blockbuster events that can generate huge revenue.At this stage, there has been no official UFC statement confirming the actual details of the negotiations mentioned by Makhachev. Still, his remarks, have once more kind of pulled focus on how hard it can be to lock in high-profile fights, even when fans and promoters look like theyre really keen on getting it done.