Daniel Rodriguez returns to headline UFC Belgrade against hometown favourite Uros Medic
Daniel Rodriguez is back in the UFC after the longest layoff of his career and will headline UFC Belgrade in his first-ever main event against hometown favourite Uros Medic. In an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com, Rodriguez spoke about a renewed appreciation for the opportunity, stressed that surviving the opening round is key against Medic, and revealed why he believes a showdown with Leon Edwards should be next.
Rodriguez’s comeback marks the end of the most extended absence he has faced as a professional fighter. The upcoming bout at UFC Belgrade represents the first time he will occupy the main-event slot on a UFC card. Speaking in an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com, he reflected on how the time away altered his perspective and approach to competing. He also highlighted tactical priorities for the fight and outlined his ambitions for potential match-ups after this return.
The former absence has clearly reshaped Rodriguez’s mindset, according to his comments during the interview. He described a renewed appreciation for the platform the UFC provides and for the chance to again compete at the highest level. That attitude underlines the significance he attaches to headlining a card for the first time in his career. The bout against Uros Medic will take place in Medic’s home city, adding a local-favourite dynamic to the event.
Addressing the challenge posed by Medic, Rodriguez made clear that early momentum could prove decisive. He explained why surviving the opening round is key against Medic and indicated that the initial exchanges will be instrumental in setting the fight’s course. Rodriguez framed his tactical plan around weathering the opening phase and then executing his game once the first round has passed. The emphasis on the opening round underscores how he expects the fight’s early tempo to unfold.
Beyond the immediate contest, Rodriguez used the interview to outline his longer-term aims in the division. He revealed why he believes a showdown with Leon Edwards should be next, positioning that matchup as a target following his return. Rodriguez presented that possibility as part of his competitive roadmap after the Belgrade main event. His comments signal an intention to pursue high-profile opponents if the comeback goes as planned.
Rodriguez’s main-event appearance at UFC Belgrade closes a chapter of absence and opens a new one in which he seeks to translate renewed perspective into results. With the added pressure of facing a hometown favourite and the tactical focus on the opening round, the outcome will shape both his immediate standing and his stated hope to test himself against Leon Edwards next.