Daniel Rodriguez will compete at UFC Belgrade this Saturday, facing Serbian fighter Uros Medic.
The American welterweight's appearance comes after an eight-month detention in a Tijuana jail on marijuana possession charges.
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Rodriguez was released in April and has since trained between Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
At 39, he brings a three-fight winning streak into the octagon, including victories over Kevin Holland in July 2025 and Alex Morono in 2024.
Medic, from Novi Sad near Belgrade, is known as a finisher, having never gone to a decision in his professional career.
The event marks the first UFC card in Serbia and features 14 fights.
Rodriguez's Journey from Jail to the Octagon
Rodriguez acknowledged the dramatic shift from incarceration to competing on an international stage.
He described his handling of the situation as professional, noting the ups and downs of his preparation.
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He expects a hostile atmosphere in Serbia, with the local crowd likely supporting Medic.
Despite management's initial advice against taking the fight, Rodriguez insisted on accepting the contract, emphasizing his freedom and desire to live in the moment.
Rodriguez expressed disbelief at his rapid turnaround and headlining position on the card. He reflected on his journey, calling it a crazy experience.
Despite his age and late start in MMA at 25, Rodriguez believes a win over Medic could lead to higher-ranked bouts.
He mentioned a potential fight with Leon Edwards and aspirations to face a top-five opponent.
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UFC Belgrade also features Jan Blachowicz against Navajo Stirling, and Robert Valentin versus Dusko Todorovic.
