Your Guide to the UFC 316 Prelims
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UFC 316 goes down Saturday, June 7, in Newark, New Jersey, headlined by two thrilling bantamweight title fights. In the main event, former champion Sean O’Malley looks to reclaim gold in a high-stakes rematch against Merab Dvalishvili. The co-main sees Julianna Peña take on Kayla Harrison in the other bantamweight title bout. Also, Patchy Mix makes his long-awaited UFC debut after a dominant run in the PFL.
But as always, this guide isn’t about the main card—we’re here for the prelims. From rebooked matchups to must-see UFC debuts, the prelims are packed with future contenders and under-the-radar gems. Here’s everything you need to know before the action heats up on the main card:
How to Watch UFC 316:
- Early Prelims: 3:00 PM PDT (UFC Fight Pass & ESPN+)
- Prelims: 5:00 PM PDT (ESPN & ESPN+)
Bruno Silva vs. Joshua Van
The featured prelim comes with high expectations. Joshua Van, just 23 years old, is ranked #14 at flyweight and holds a 6-1 UFC record. This marks his fourth straight appearance on a UFC PPV. Across the Octagon is Bruno Silva, ranked #12, coming off his first loss since 2020. Before that setback, Silva was riding a four-fight win streak—all finishes, all earning Performance of the Night bonuses. The storyline here revolves around the age gap: Van is 23, Silva is 35. Historically, youth tends to prevail in these matchups.
Joo Sang Yoo vs. Jeka Asparido Saragih
Joo Sang Yoo makes his UFC debut undefeated (8-0) and riding an 11-fight win streak. He’s one of South Korea’s top prospects, with wins by KO, submission, and decision. Jeka Saragih brings a 14-4 record and a reputation for chaos—only one of his fights has gone to the judges. Every other bout has ended in a finish. Expect fireworks in this clash between two Asian Pacific nations.
Quillan Salkilld vs. Yanal Ashmouz
Quillan Salkilld turned heads in his UFC debut back in February, scoring a knockout in under 20 seconds at UFC 312. He’ll look to open the card again at UFC 316, boasting a significant height advantage. Yanal Ashmouz, with only one professional loss (via decision), is a powerful striker but also a versatile threat. The Israeli fighter will be a tough test for the rising Australian.
MarQuel Mederos vs. Mark Choinski
MarQuel Mederos is having a strong rookie campaign in the UFC, with two decision wins already under his belt. Known for his knockout power, he’ll be chasing his first UFC finish. Originally slated to fight the week prior, he was rebooked for this PPV. Making his UFC debut is the undefeated Mark Choinski, a former Anthony Pettis FC champion. A submission specialist, Choinski is particularly dangerous with chokes.
Honorable Mentions
Azamat Murzakanov vs. Brendson Ribeiro
Azamat Murzakanov remains undefeated and continues to bulldoze through opponents. His resume is even more impressive given the level of competition he’s faced. Originally set to fight Johnny Walker, Murzakanov was rebooked after Walker withdrew. Brendson Ribeiro, now 2-2 in the UFC, has won two straight but is coming in on short notice. This could be a make-or-break moment for him despite recent momentum. Don’t expect this one to go the distance.
Khaos Williams vs. Andreas Gustafsson
This bout has been chaos in every sense. Khaos Williams enters UFC 316 on his third scheduled opponent after Uros Medic withdrew and replacement Albert Tadevosyan failed his physical. His new dance partner, Andreas Gustafsson, is in a similar boat—Trevin Giles and Jeremiah Wells both pulled out of scheduled matchups, delaying his UFC debut by a week.
Though it wasn’t the original plan for either man, Gustafsson now makes his debut on a PPV, while Williams looks to live up to his nickname once again. With all the last-minute changes, expect both fighters to come out aggressive and let off some frustration from the buildup.
Don’t sleep on the prelims. UFC 316 may be headlined by two massive bantamweight title fights. But, the action starts early—and the next big breakout star might just be fighting before the lights go out in Newark!
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