Ilia Topuria, a ranked contender in the UFC lightweight division, has decided to face Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, moving away from a highly anticipated bout with Islam Makhachev. The potential fight between Topuria and Makhachev was expected to be a significant event, but it collapsed due to differing accounts of why it didn't materialize. Topuria claims the fight was nearly finalized before Makhachev withdrew due to injury, while Makhachev attributed the cancellation to financial demands from Topuria's team. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed Makhachev's injury as a factor. Beniel Dariush commented that Topuria might have perceived Gaethje as an easier opponent to prepare for compared to Makhachev's grappling-heavy style. Despite the change in opponents, Topuria has shown respect for Makhachev, acknowledging his dominance in the division and expressing a desire to eventually test himself against the champion.