After an unplanned layoff because of an arrest Mexico, following his most recent UFC appearance, Daniel Rodriguez is prepared to return to action, and will apparently do so during International Fight Week 2026.
Shortly after his last victory over Kevin Holland in July 2025, ‘D-Rod’ was arrested while attempting to take a small amount of marijuana across the border into Mexico. He spent eight months locked up in Tijuana following his arrest, but despite some very dark times, he managed to make use of his days spent behind bars and stayed as close to fighting shape as he could.
Daniel Rodriguez shared video of him keeping his MMA skills sharp while in prison in Tijuana Mexico.
He was released this week according to his Instagram and hopes to return to the UFC shortly. pic.twitter.com/4x6yLGjEtv
— Uncrowned (@uncrownedcombat) April 10, 2026
Now that the situation has been resolved, Rodriguez is looking to continue the momentum that was had last year when he secured his third straight wins inside of nine months. During a recent interview, he revealed that the UFC has offered him a fight with former welterweight champion Leon Edwards for his return, which is expected to take place at UFC 329 on July 11th during International Fight Week 2026.
“I got an offer. You guys will probably see me in there with Leon Edwards at International Fight Week. I’m accepting the offer for Leon Edwards.”
🚨💣 Daniel Rodriguez confirms he’s fighting Leon Edwards at International Fight Week
“I got an offer. You guys will probably see me in there with Leon Edwards at International Fight Week. I’m accepting the offer for Leon Edwards.”
(via @TMZ_Sports ) pic.twitter.com/0SofUlWPG2
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 15, 2026