‘They need to make a movie out of this, bro’: Daniel Rodriguez grateful to get UFC Belgrade headline spot after 8 months in Mexican prison
UFC fighter Daniel Rodriguez is set to headline a UFC event in Belgrade following an eight-month imprisonment in Mexico. Rodriguez expresses gratitude for his return to the sport after fearing his career was over during his incarceration.
Why it matters
It highlights the personal challenges and career volatility faced by professional athletes in the combat sports industry.
Daniel Rodriguez has had a crazy year, and now he gets to return to doing what he loves most when he faces Uros Medic in the main event of UFC Belgrade this Saturday.
“Man, I’m super excited,” Rodriguez told MMA Fighting. “I’m feeling very grateful and fortunate to be here, man. It’s been a long road and I’m excited to fight on Saturday.”
In April, Rodriguez was released from a Mexican jail after being imprisoned for eight months due to an arrest at the border when he was caught in possession of marijuana. “D-Rod” gets a massive opportunity riding a three-fight win streak, including a decision win over Kevin Holland a year ago in a wild battle at UFC 318.
Rodriguez was asked if he had doubts he’d ever fight again while sitting behind bars.
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