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Topuria: Makhachev fight ‘has to happen’ but is not under control

UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria insists the fight with Islam Makhachev is the one everyone wants to see, though he claims it is not under his control as he prepares for his upcoming bout against Justin Gaethje.

“El Matador” expressed that if he were in the UFC's position, he would do everything to make the fight happen. However, he deferred to the UFC's management, noting that from the outside, it is difficult to understand the full picture. Topuria emphasized that his main goal remains a “triple crown” regardless of the opponent, dismissing accusations that he priced himself out of the Makhachev fight. He is currently focused on his fight on June 11th at the UFC White House card.