Mateusz Gamrot
Gamrot's main advantage is his wrestling. He constantly alternates boxing with takedowns, wrestles very effectively against the cage and, on the ground, prefers a pragmatic approach: he rarely threatens with submissions but has six submission wins to his name. The Pole does not have heavy punching power, but he moves well, switches stances and uses body kicks to find his range. In the upcoming bout, Gamrot will likely try to deny Salkilld space. It is not in the Pole's interest to stay at long range for too long, so he will look to close the distance, force the clinch and constantly threaten takedowns.
Quillan Salkilld
The Australian comes into the bout with a 12-1 record and a five-fight winning streak, four of which he finished in the first round. In May, he made a major statement by knocking out Beneil Dariush, after which he got his first UFC main event. Salkilld is 26, has the height and reach advantage over Gamrot, and his main asset is his varied striking. The Australian is confident on the front foot, judges distance well, uses kicks actively and can sharply raise the tempo when he sees a chance to finish the fight. In this contest, Salkilld will likely try to keep his opponent at long range and prevent him from dragging him into wrestling exchanges. It is important for the Australian to stay on his feet, pick Gamrot apart with the jab and kicks, and avoid remaining stationary.
Mateusz Gamrot vs Quillan Salkilld Prediction
Salkilld enters the biggest fight of his career at the ideal time. The Australian is younger, quicker and has the physical advantages over Gamrot, while his striking allows him to operate comfortably at long range. This is precisely the style that causes the Pole the most problems. Gamrot will likely look for takedowns, but Salkilld has repeatedly shown sound takedown defence and the ability to return quickly to his feet. If the Australian can withstand the early pressure and prevent the Pole from establishing top position for long, the advantage will gradually shift to him. His speed, footwork and more varied striking mean he can consistently win exchanges on the feet. Mateusz remains one of the division's best wrestlers, but age is gradually taking its toll, and his recent performances have shown that it is becoming increasingly difficult for him to impose his pace against mobile opponents. Salkilld is ready to break into the lightweight elite, and a win over the Pole would be the logical next step.
