UFC star explains why cartel members protected him while in Mexican prison
UFC star Daniel Rodriguez has revealed why he was protected by cartel members while serving time in a Mexican prison just weeks after his release.
Rodriguez – known as D-Rod by fans – effectively disappeared after his last bout against Kevin Holland at UFC 318 back in July 2025, with many questioning the reason for his radio silence.
However, earlier this month, the 39-year-old Californian finally broke his silence, posting a clip of himself to his Instagram Story accompanied by the caption: “Release day.”
This was his first post in over eight months, which was rather unexpected given that he is currently on a three-fight win streak, having defeated Alex Morono, Santiago Ponzinibbio and Holland between October 2024 and July 2025.
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Speaking to Ariel Helwani earlier this week, the veteran explained how he went on holiday in Mexico and “forgot” he was carrying a small amount of cannabis.
“It was under an ounce, and I got pulled over at the line and checked — the border patrol were tripping on the weed,” he said.
On Sunday (April 19), the UFC star finally opened up about his experience in a Mexican prison, revealing that he was protected by high-ranking members of the cartel.
“I’ve been in jail before. It’s not my first rodeo, but this was a whole different monster,” he told TMZ.
“Surrounded by the lowest of the low. You can imagine jail, then you can imagine jail in Mexico.”
Rodriguez then explained how he “got a lot of love” in jail due to his reputation in the UFC, before suggesting that he’s already been offered a comeback fight against former welterweight champion Leon Edwards in July.
“I did get a lot of love in there, but it is jail, and it is Mexico,” Rodriguez continued. “It was a crazy experience. Luckily, nothing happened. I was in the right crowd of people where nobody f***ed with me, nobody messed with me, and I didn’t have to beat anybody’s ass or anything like that.”
The American added: “I got an amazing offer. You guys will probably be seeing me in there with Leon Edwards, International Fight Week, sometime around July.
“I’ve been thinking about it, made the decision right now. I’m accepting the offer for Leon Edwards, International Fight Week. Let’s go!”
International Fight Week is scheduled to take place between July 9 and 12.
Topics: UFC, MMA, Leon Edwards
Luke Davies