Islam Makhachev reveals his prediction for Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria have been feuding for a considerable period of time, but their oft-discussed superfight hasn't materialized yet. Makhachev is an ex-UFC lightweight champion and the reigning UFC welterweight champion, whereas Topuria is a former UFC featherweight champion and the reigning UFC lightweight champion. 

Currently, Makhachev is rumored to be defending his welterweight belt against Ian Machado Garry, likely at UFC 330 on August 15, 2026. Nevertheless, that matchup hasn't been officially announced by the UFC. 

Meanwhile, Topuria is scheduled to defend his lightweight belt against interim UFC lightweight champ Justin Gaethje. Their title unification match will headline the UFC Freedom 250 event, which goes down at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S.A., on June 14, 2026. 

Islam Makhachev's prediction for Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250

Speaking to the UFC, Islam Makhachev has now weighed in on the title showdown between the 29-year-old Ilia Topuria and the 37-year-old Justin Gaethje. Incidentally, both fighters have long been eyeing a possible fight against Makhachev, but neither has fought him. 

Addressing the UFC Freedom 250 headlining match, Makhachev picked Topuria as the likely victor. However, the Dagestani combatant clarified that he wasn't counting the experienced Gaethje out. Makhachev stated: 

"The main event at the White House, I think... Of course, I'm not counting Gaethje out. 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." 

Islam Makhachev on potentially fighting Ilia Topuria

Additionally, when asked if he himself would like to fight Ilia Topuria sooner or later, Islam Makhachev seemed to suggest that Topuria and the latter's team were responsible for them not clashing at the White House. 

Makhachev said, "There's a lot of talk, a lot of discussion about this fight. But Topuria himself and his team know why the fight -- Topuria vs. Makhachev -- won't happen at the White House." 

For his part, Topuria has lately underscored that he has nothing personal against Makhachev. "El Matador" recently explained that a fight between them would simply be one of the biggest in UFC history, given their respective standings as double champs. 

The consensus is that a potential Makhachev vs. Topuria fight might be unfeasible in the immediate future. That said, if Topuria defeats Gaethje and Makhachev also emerges victorious against whoever he faces next, their long-awaited superfight might come to fruition. 

 

Watch Islam Makhachev discuss the topics below: 

🌹 @TopuriaIlia vs @Justin_Gaethje 🎞️@MakhachevMMA gives his picks for our #UFCWhiteHouse main event! ✅🏆

[ Title fights presented by @cryptocom ] pic.twitter.com/KVtXFAAluj

— UFC Canada (@UFC_CA) May 28, 2026