Islam Makhachev welcomes Ilia Topuria fight at UFC White House

Islam Makhachev has once again stated an interest in facing Ilia Topuria at the UFC White House.

Since the announcement of the White House card, there has been much speculation as to who will be selected to represent the company on the grandest stage of all. With rumors suggesting there may be only six or seven fights on the night, not everyone will get their wish to compete in the capital, with President Donald Trump and other significant American figures in attendance.

After Dana White ensured the greatest card in UFC history for June 14, fans have been met with a swarm of their favorite fighters lobbying to be one of the precious few called upon by the promotion.

Amid the rumored fighters set to feature on the show, Islam Makhachev could be one of them. Having not fought since capturing the UFC welterweight title in November, Makhachev is ready to put his 170 lbs throne on the line.

“In my division, [there are] a lot of contenders who deserve the title fight,” Makhachev said. “UFC just has to give me a new target. That’s it. I’m just waiting.”

With Ilia Topuria now expected to return sooner rather than later, all signs point toward him being a big inclusion to the White House card.

Expectations about Topuria’s next opponent are dividing the fan base. Some consider a title unification bout against Justin Gaethje the obvious choice for the Georgian, while others, including Islam Makhachev himself, want ‘El Matador’ to dare to be great again by moving to a third division in search of more championship success.

“I like this idea, if the UFC want,” Makhachev said, confirming his interest in the Topuria clash. “I know a lot of MMA fans want this fight. I’m ready.”

“Yeah, [the White House] is one of the arenas where, maybe, I’m gonna fight next. We have the Ramadan month, where I’m not gonna train for one month. After that, I will slowly begin my training camp, and I will be ready. The White House or other dates, I will be ready.”

Islam Makhachev says he likes the idea of fighting Ilia Topuria at the White House 👀“I like this idea, if UFC wants… I’m ready.”(via @telegrafrs) pic.twitter.com/fLzBu4x7GZ

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 11, 2026