MMA Match Preview: Quillan Salkilld (10-1) vs. Jamie Mullarkey (18-8)
Quillan Salkilld (10-1-0) takes on Jamie Mullarkey (18-8-0) in a lightweight bout on the main card of UFC 325: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2. Salkilld, the breakout star of 2025 with three straight UFC wins, aims to continue his ascent in front of a home crowd in Sydney, showcasing his versatile striking and grappling against Mullarkey, a veteran grinder looking to snap a two-fight skid and prove he still belongs at this level. This all-Australian matchup contrasts Salkilld’s momentum and finishing ability with Mullarkey’s durability and experience, potentially leading to a high-pace war that could end in a stoppage if Salkilld lands clean or grind to a decision if Mullarkey weathers the early storm.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This 21,000-capacity venue is a staple for UFC events in the region, known for its passionate crowds and electric atmosphere during Australian-led cards.
Ring walks are scheduled for 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 1:00 PM AEDT local time on February 1 for the main card). Prelims begin at 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT / 11:00 AM AEDT), with early prelims at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT / 9:00 AM AEDT). As a main card opener, cage walks are expected around 9:15-9:30 PM ET (6:15-6:30 PM PT / 1:15-1:30 PM AEDT on February 1). The event streams live on Paramount+.
Injury Report
No active injuries have been reported for either fighter. Salkilld’s original opponent, Rong Zhu, withdrew due to a knee injury, leading to Mullarkey stepping in on short notice. Mullarkey has no known issues, and Salkilld is fully healthy after his recent knockout win.
Quillan Salkilld:
No reported injuries; coming off a clean knockout win.
Jamie Mullarkey:
No active injuries; stepped in healthy on short notice.
Fighter Matchups
This lightweight prelim bout pits Salkilld’s rising star power and versatility against Mullarkey’s veteran grit and durability, creating a competitive Australian showdown at 155 pounds.
Quillan Salkilld (age 26, 6’0″, 75″ reach, orthodox): A breakout prospect with sharp striking, low kicks, and opportunistic grappling, Salkilld excels in mid-range exchanges and finishes (40% KO/TKO, 30% sub). His style suits fluid movement and offensive variety, but he can be tested by relentless grinders. Weaknesses include occasional overconfidence leading to counters.
Jamie Mullarkey (age 31, 6’0″, 74″ reach, orthodox): A tough veteran with strong clinch work, body shots, and resilience, Mullarkey thrives in wearing down opponents with pressure. His style suits turning fights into wars, but recent losses highlight vulnerabilities to quicker, more technical strikers. Weaknesses include slower footwork and occasional overextension.
Key Stylistic Clash: Salkilld’s speed and variety vs. Mullarkey’s grinding pressure and durability. Salkilld must use movement to avoid being smothered; Mullarkey needs to close distance for clinch work and body shots.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Salkilld’s youth, 3-0 UFC record, and breakout potential favor him in exchanges; Mullarkey’s experience (26 fights) and heart offer upset potential if he survives early.
X-Factor: Salkilld’s momentum from three straight UFC wins could overwhelm; if Mullarkey exploits any inexperience, his grinding shines.
Recent Form
Salkilld enters on a seven-fight win streak with dominant UFC performances, while Mullarkey looks to snap a two-fight skid.
Quillan Salkilld (Last 5: W W W W W):
October 25, 2025: KO (Head Kick) R1 2:30 vs. Nasrat Haqparast.
June 7, 2025: UD 3 vs. Yanal Ashmouz.
February 8, 2025: KO/TKO R1 0:19 vs. Anshul Jubli.
September 3, 2024: UD 3 vs. Gauge Young (DWCS win).
Form Notes: 7 straight wins, 4 KOs, 3 SUBs, 3 DECs; breakout year with 3-0 UFC record.
Jamie Mullarkey (Last 5: W L L L W):
September 27, 2025: UD 3 vs. Rolando Bedoya.
May 4, 2024: KO/TKO R1 4:42 loss vs. Mauricio Ruffy.
December 9, 2023: KO/TKO R1 1:44 loss vs. Nasrat Haqparast.
September 9, 2023: UD 3 vs. John Makdessi.
June 24, 2023: UD 3 loss vs. Nazim Sadykhov.
Form Notes: 2 wins in last 5, both decisions; 6-6 UFC record with 75% of losses by KO/TKO.
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Salkilld and Mullarkey, with no prior head-to-head encounters or shared opponents. Salkilld’s breakout UFC run meets Mullarkey’s veteran path in a fresh lightweight matchup.
FIGHT ODDS
Quillan Salkilld – 850
Jamie Mullarkey + 575
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026
