UFC 316 – Quillan Salkilld vs Yanal Ashmouz – Full Fight Replay Available Today

No one told Quillan Salkilld and Yanal Ashmouz this was just an undercard fight. From the opening bell, the intensity they brought to UFC 316 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, felt like a co-main event. Both lightweights fought with purpose, urgency, and a clear desire to make a statement in front of a roaring crowd.

Ashmouz came out aggressively, firing heavy punches and looking to impose his power early. His low kicks cracked against Salkilld’s lead leg, and his overhand right repeatedly found a home in the first minute. But Salkilld stayed composed, relying on clean footwork and precision striking to weather the storm. He responded with well-timed counters and gradually began to dismantle Ashmouz’s rhythm.

By the end of the first round, it was clear that Salkilld’s technical approach was starting to take over. He controlled the distance with a stinging jab, punished Ashmouz with body shots, and showed off his defensive instincts whenever the Israeli fighter tried to drag him into close-range exchanges. The second round further highlighted Salkilld’s versatility—he mixed up his strikes beautifully, avoided damage, and even shrugged off a deep takedown attempt with a slick sprawl.

Ashmouz, always game, never stopped pushing forward. He swung with power and heart, hoping to catch Salkilld with a momentum-shifting shot. But Salkilld’s discipline never wavered. In the third round, the Australian continued to frustrate Ashmouz with sharp angles and accurate combinations, staying a step ahead until the final horn.

After three competitive rounds, all three judges scored the bout 29-28 in favor of Salkilld, giving him a unanimous decision win. It was a mature, composed performance from a fighter who continues to evolve with each outing. As for Ashmouz, his toughness and aggression once again made for an entertaining showing, even in defeat. Together, the two put on a battle that earned plenty of respect and set an early benchmark for the rest of the night.