Islam Makhachev has weighed in on the newly booked UFC main event that will see Ilia Topuria defend his UFC lightweight title against Justin Gaethje on June 14 at the White House in Washington.
A superfight between Makhachev and Topuria for that date and location did not materialize, but the lightweight champion is still closely watching how the matchup played out. "There's a lot of talk, a lot of discussion about this fight," Makhachev said.
He also addressed why he won’t be the one standing across from Topuria on June 14. "But Topuria himself and his team know why the fight Topuria vs. Makhachev won't happen at the White House."
Oddsmakers have Topuria as a heavy favorite against Gaethje, and Makhachev’s early read lines up with that outlook. "The main event at the White House, I think, of course I'm not counting Gaethje out," he said. "He's an old warhorse with a lot of experience. But Topuria is younger. It will be a great fight for the fans. I believe this fight definitely won't go the distance. And I'm leaning toward Topuria winning."
