Islam Makhachev picks Ilia Topuria over Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250

Islam Makhachev does not expect the UFC Freedom 250 main event to reach the judges.

The UFC welterweight champion, who gave up his lightweight strap last year to chase dual-division status, told the promotion's social media channels Monday that he favors Ilia Topuria to beat Justin Gaethje in Sunday's title unification bout at the White House. Sherdog first reported Makhachev's comments.

Why Makhachev sees Topuria winning on the South Lawn

Gaethje enters as a steep underdog against the unbeaten Topuria, but Makhachev refused to count out the 33-year-old slugger entirely. The Dagestani sees the eight-year age gap as a critical factor working against the American. "Of course, I'm not counting Gaethje out. He's an old warhorse with a lot of experience. But Topuria is younger," Makhachev said, per the UFC. "It will be a great fight for the fans. I believe this fight definitely won't go the distance. And I'm leaning towards Topuria winning."

Gaethje is the one lightweight contender Makhachev never faced during a 15-1 run that included four title defenses. The matchup never materialized before Makhachev moved to welterweight, where he claimed his second belt. Topuria has repeatedly called for a showdown with Makhachev and has said he would jump to 170 pounds if he gets past Gaethje on June 14.

UFC Freedom 250 takes place on the South Lawn in Washington, D.C., with the seven-fight card also featuring an interim heavyweight title fight between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane.

Original reporting:

• sherdog.com — Islam Makhachev shares his prediction for UFC White House main event