Overview

• Ilia Topuria has announced he will fight at UFC 317 during International Fight Week, though his opponent has not been confirmed.
• Islam Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, has expressed interest in moving to welterweight rather than defending his title against Topuria.
• Prominent analysts, including Chael Sonnen and Daniel Cormier, have criticized Makhachev's reluctance to face Topuria, highlighting perceived double standards in champion treatment.
• Beneil Dariush noted that Makhachev faces backlash regardless of whether he fights Topuria, loses to him, or avoids the matchup entirely.
• Dana White is under pressure to finalize a headliner for UFC 317, with the outcome of the May 11 welterweight title fight potentially influencing Makhachev's decision.