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For context, McGregor reportedly made around $30 million for his blockbuster boxing match with Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Asking more than three times that amount for a UFC fight, even one as historic as this, seems excessive. The visa request raised even more questions. McGregor was likely referencing the new ‘Gold Card’ visa program signed into effect by the Trump administration, which allows expedited entry for those who donate heavily to the U.S. Commerce Department. As such, demanding 100 of them wasn’t just bold—it was unprecedented! Conor McGregor has built his career on moments that blur the line between sport and showmanship. His $100 million and golden visa demands might be seen as just another example of that. But if Chael Sonnen’s theory holds true, then this isn’t about money or visas, it’s about a fighter signaling the end without saying the words. But if ‘The Notorious’ is seemingly angling for a way out of the White House card, who else could step in? Well, the UFC lightweight champion has recently thrown his hat in the ring for the historic event! McGregor’s spot being eyed by Ilia Topuria as he lays down a “bet” for the White House slot Ilia Topuria isn’t waiting for Dana White or the UFC brass to decide. The reigning lightweight king has made it clear, he expects to headline the card at the White House. And in true ‘El Matador’ fashion, he isn’t making it a suggestion. He’s daring anyone to bet against him. “Who wants to bet with me that I’m the main event at the White House?” Topuria recently posted on X. It’s a bold claim, but not an unrealistic one. Topuria has skyrocketed into superstardom since capturing UFC gold in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions. His most recent outing at UFC 317 saw him brutally knock out Charles Oliveira, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most dangerous finishers. In terms of active UFC stars, few can match his momentum or his confidence. The uncertainty now lies in who he’ll face if the UFC follows through with his vision. Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, and Arman Tsarukyan have all been vocal about wanting the first crack at ‘El Matador’s’ crown. Any one of them could anchor a historic card on the White House lawn and stand across the Octagon from him! As such, one man looks like he may be negotiating his way out, the other is daring anyone to bet against him as the face of UFC’s most ambitious stage yet. So where does that leave fans? With questions, only time can answer. Will Dana White manage to coax Conor McGregor back with a deal that satisfies both sides, or will Ilia Topuria seize the spotlight and carry the banner for the UFC’s White House spectacle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
