Uroš Medić scores 30‑second knockout as UFC makes historic debut in Belgrade

The first UFC event ever staged in Serbia took place at Belgrade Arena, drawing a record 18,623 spectators and generating about $2.5 million in revenue. Local favorite Uroš Medić delivered a 30‑second knockout of American Daniel Rodriguez, earning a $100,000 performance bonus. Other notable finishes included Nina Milošević’s knockout of Australian Heli Koven, Navaho Stirling’s rapid victory over Jan Blaović, and Gilbert Urbina’s technical knockout of Vlado Čepo, each also receiving $100,000 bonuses.

UFC president Dana White praised the atmosphere and announced plans to return to Belgrade. The event also attracted regional personalities: Croatian influencer Meri Banovac posted photos from the arena, while Serbian basketball players celebrated Medić’s win on social media. In a separate bout, Serbian debutant Miloš Janičić suffered a leg injury and was defeated by Noa Gunjon, prompting public support from Montenegrin reality‑TV figure Filip Car.

Overall, the night set multiple records for first‑round finishes and marked a milestone for mixed‑martial‑arts promotion in the Balkans.