Jamie Mullarkey and Quillan Salkilld set for all-Australian clash at UFC 325 in Sydney

An all-Australian lightweight matchup has been confirmed for UFC 325 in Sydney, with experienced UFC campaigner Jamie Mullarkey stepping in to face rising prospect Quillan Salkilld on short notice.

The bout comes after China’s Rongzhu was forced out of the February 1 event, opening the door for Mullarkey, a long-time training partner of featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, to join one of the strongest UFC cards ever assembled in Australia.

UFC 325 will be headlined by Volkanovski defending his featherweight title in a rematch against Brazil’s Diego Lopes. It will mark the first time the champion has defended his belt in his home city of Sydney.

Two Australians arriving from different paths

While both fighters represent Australia inside the Octagon, Mullarkey and Salkilld enter the contest at very different stages of their UFC careers.

Salkilld, 26, has built rapid momentum since earning his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series in 2024. The West Australian is unbeaten in three UFC appearances and rides a 10-fight winning streak overall, with recent performances highlighting his finishing ability and confidence at the elite level.

Mullarkey brings years of experience in the UFC lightweight division, having faced a wide range of opponents across multiple fight cards. The Central Coast product returned to the win column in his most recent outing and now looks to regain consistency while proving he remains a dangerous presence in the division.

Salkilld aiming to extend his rise

Early in his UFC tenure, Salkilld has already made an impression with decisive victories and strong performances under pressure.

UFC 325 presents a significant opportunity for the young lightweight to test himself against a proven UFC competitor, while continuing to build his reputation as one of Australia’s most promising fighters.

A victory in Sydney would further strengthen Salkilld’s case as a contender to watch heading into 2025.

Mullarkey ready for the moment

For Mullarkey, the late notice call-up represents opportunity rather than disruption.

Already well into training camp while working alongside Volkanovski at Freestyle MMA, the Wollongong-based lightweight says he remained ready for a potential opening on the Sydney card.

Facing a surging opponent on a major Australian event offers Mullarkey the chance to make a statement and reassert himself within the lightweight ranks.

Experience meets momentum on a historic card

UFC 325 is shaping as a milestone event for Australian mixed martial arts, featuring a deep lineup of local talent supporting the championship main event.

The matchup between Mullarkey and Salkilld adds a compelling narrative of experience versus momentum, with both fighters carrying clear stakes into the contest.

For Salkilld, it is an opportunity to validate his rapid rise. For Mullarkey, it is a chance to slow that momentum and re-establish his position in the division.

When the two Australians meet in Sydney on February 1, the result could play a meaningful role in shaping the future of Australia’s lightweight scene.

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