On August 1, 2026, the UFC made its debut in Serbia, hosting an event in Belgrade that featured 14 fights. The main event showcased Uros Medic, a local fighter, who was set to compete in front of his hometown crowd against Daniel Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who had recently faced legal issues in Mexico due to cannabis possession, was looking to bounce back after an impressive win over Kevin Holland, demonstrating his elite cardio. Medic, despite having a record of wins, faced skepticism regarding the quality of his opponents, as many had been released from the UFC. This fight was crucial for Medic, as he aimed to prove himself on a larger stage. The event was broadcast live on Paramount+, starting at 10 a.m. ET, with oddsmakers predicting that eight of the bouts would end inside the distance. Other notable fights included Jan Blachowicz against Navajo Stirling, where Blachowicz, despite his age and recent losses, was favored due to his experience against top-tier opponents. The card also featured several intriguing matchups, with various betting lines indicating potential outcomes, such as fights going the distance or specific fighters winning by knockout or decision. The atmosphere in Belgrade was electric, as fans gathered to witness this historic UFC event, marking a significant moment for the promotion and the local MMA community.
