Daniel Rodriguez releases statement following disappointing UFC Belgrade knockout loss

Daniel Rodriguez took a first-round knockout loss to Uros Medic in the UFC Belgrade main event on Saturday, marking a tough return after more than a year away from competition. Rodriguez had last fought in July 2025, when he defeated Kevin Holland at UFC 318 to extend his win streak to three fights. However, an eight-month prison sentence in Mexico interrupted his momentum, and his comeback bout did not go as planned. The hard-hitting Medic needed just 30 seconds to catch Rodriguez with a devastating strike and secure the finish.

Following the loss, the 39-year-old welterweight addressed the defeat on social media, acknowledging that he loaded up on the jab but was beaten to the punch. Rodriguez emphasized that despite the setback, he remained proud of himself for overcoming the significant adversity he faced over the past year. He noted that he was not in optimal shape upon his release from prison and understood the risk of fighting Medic in his home country on short notice.

Rodriguez indicated he will return to the gym with improved conditioning for his next outing, expressing determination to bounce back from the loss. The knockout marked only the second of his career across 26 professional fights. His UFC record now stands at 10-5, with this loss coming roughly 18 months after his previous defeat in June 2024.