UFC welterweight Daniel Rodriguez has revealed that during his eight-month incarceration in a Mexican prison, he received protection from powerful cartel members who ensured his safety behind bars.
In an exclusive interview, the 39-year-old fighter described the experience as "a whole different monster" compared to previous jail stints. "Surrounded by the lowest of the low. You can imagine jail, then you can imagine jail in Mexico," Rodriguez said.
"Fortunately for me, word kind of got around who I was and I had people in high places take care of me and stuff. I guess you can say for the most part I was put in probably the best living situation."
Rodriguez confirmed those "people in high places" were cartel members who provided him with protection throughout his stay at the Tijuana facility. "I did get a lot of love in there, but it is jail, and it is Mexico. It was a crazy experience," he explained. "Luckily, nothing happened. I was in the right crowd of people where nobody messed with me and I didn't have to beat anybody's ass or nothing like that."
Now free and preparing to return to competition, Rodriguez (20-5 professional record) announced he has accepted a fight offer against current UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards during International Fight Week in July. "I got an amazing offer," Rodriguez revealed. "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!"
The fighter indicated he received the championship opportunity just hours before making his announcement, marking a dramatic turnaround from his prison experience to a title shot against one of the sport's top competitors.