Australian Quillan Salkilld's rise in the UFC is every fighter's dream when they sign with the promotion. In just over a year and a half, he has gone from a prospect to potentially being just one victory away from a lightweight title shot.
Salkilld's dominant submission victory over elite wrestler Mateusz Gamrot in the main event this past Saturday only solidified his position in the division. The 26-year-old not only secured the biggest win of his career but also made a statement that he is the real deal among the UFC's lightweight elite.
With his stock continuing to rise, Salkilld has already set his sights on his next challenge. The Australian lightweight made it clear that he wants his next fight to be against someone ranked in the top five, or someone who can get him closer to a title shot.
"I Don't Give a F***. The Dream Is the Belt"
In the post-fight presser, Salkilld emphasized that his ultimate goal is to become UFC lightweight champion and that he is not concerned about who stands between him and the opportunity.
"I don't give a f***. The dream is the belt. Whoever is going to get me there, I don't really care," Salkilld said.
The Australian was then presented with three potential opponents, including Benoit Saint Denis and the loser of the upcoming Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy matchup at UFC 331. The 26-year-old admitted that he would be interested in fighting any of the three.
Saint Denis the Most Realistic Option
When asked specifically about Saint Denis, Salkilld appeared to see the Frenchman as the most realistic option. He explained that the timing could work well because "God of War" recently competed against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 329 and did not take much damage as he got submitted in less than a minute.
"I think 'BSD' is good. That fight was not too long ago. He didn't really take any damage from that fight. He'd be like probably back in the gym, ready to go as well so, I would say that seems more like the sure thing. Hell yeah. F*** yeah, I am down," Salkilld said.
Looking Ahead
Salkilld expressed that he wants to be back before the end of this year, and with Saint Denis coming off a loss last month, it could be a fight that is possible to make.
With his win over Gamrot, the Australian has now finished his last four opponents in the first round and extended his record to 13-1. If he manages to put on the same performance in his next fight, he could be undeniable for a title shot.
