There is no doubt that UFC featherweight star Yair Rodriguez is currently under “God’s hand” after successfully coming out of surgery. What began as a promising comeback year took a sudden turn when misfortune struck the Mexican phenom in April. Following his victory over Patrício ‘Pitbull’ Freire at UFC 314, he revealed that he had broken his hand during the intense three-round battle, putting his return this year in serious doubt.

The injury not only dashed Yair Rodriguez’s plans to compete again in the current calendar year but also postponed a potential title shot against reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski. The highly anticipated rematch quickly lost momentum as UFC 320, originally set for Arena Guadalajara, Mexico, was relocated to San Antonio, Texas, and downgraded to a Fight Night due to arena construction delays. This development further dimmed Rodriguez’s hopes of another title opportunity.

Last week, Yair Rodriguez underwent surgery to repair his hand. He updated fans through social media, where supporters poured in prayers for the former title challenger. One week later, ‘Pantera’ posted a short clip straight from the hospital on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and writing, “Thank you for each message. I’m in good hands and my mind set on coming back.”

With Yair Rodriguez sidelined, the featherweight division is now turning its attention to the title matchup for Alexander Volkanovski, rumored to take place next February. Potential challengers include Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy, who are both in contention to face the Australian champion. Even with Rodriguez out of action, fans remain eager to see the Mexican star return to the title picture.

Sitting at the #3 spot in the featherweight rankings, Rodriguez’s rumored title shot created quite the fervor of anger among UFC fans. Movsar Evloev at #1 and Lerone Murphy at #4 are clear contenders over the Mexican, who is 3-2 in his last five. Murphy is coming off a fresh KO win that ruined Aaron Pico’s debut. Evloev, meanwhile, last fought in December 2024, edging past Aljamain Sterling. Momentum favors the Brit while merit calls for the Russian.

As for Rodriguez, the obvious choice is #2-ranked Diego Lopes, with whom a heated rivalry is already at the boiling point. The pair almost came to blows at the UFC 314 press conference and had to be held back by security. So, fans were taken aback that the Noche UFC headliner was not Lopes vs. Rodriguez but Lopes vs. Jean Silva instead.

But that’s a discussion for another day. For now, let’s focus on Rodriguez’s road back from injury and the support he has been receiving since dropping the update.

Henry Cejudo and Belal Muhammad join fans in wishing Yair Rodriguez a speedy recovery

“See you next year,” wrote Yair Rodriguez, confirming that he will return only in 2026, underscoring the challenging situation for the former title challenger before heading into surgery. Now, a week after surgery, ‘Pantera’ faces a long road to recovery. UFC legend Henry Cejudo offered his support, commenting, “Cheer up, bro.” Adding to the outpouring of support, former lightweight champion Belal Muhammad also sent prayers, accompanied by the emoji “🙏.”

Yair Rodriguez began his UFC journey over a decade ago. The 33-year-old featherweight quickly rose through the ranks, marked by a six-fight win streak after entering the UFC. During this period, many saw him as a future champion, with notable victories over Dan Hooker and BJ Penn. However, since 2018, Rodriguez has faced numerous ups and downs in his career.

The latest injury has sidelined him for nearly a year, yet fans continue to rally behind the Mexican star. One fan wrote, “Get well soon, bro, a hug and DTB.” And with good reason. Yair Rodriguez pushed champion Alexander Volkanovski to the limit before ultimately getting knocked out. Another fan commented, “Fierce and grit, doggy! Get well soon!”

After surgery, ‘Pantera’ will need 2–4 months of recovery before returning to the gym and beginning a training camp. This timeline suggests a possible return in the second quarter of 2026. Fans, however, are eager to see their star back. One fan commented, “Get well soon so we can see your magic back in the octagon.” Even with a return in early 2026, a title shot against Alexander Volkanovski remains uncertain, as Rodriguez has been inactive, competing only twice in the past two years with a 1–1 record.

Still, the messages of support continue to reach him. A fan commented, “Cheer up, Panther @panteraufc, we’re with you, speedy recovery.” With countless followers sending positivity and prayers, it’s now confirmed that Rodriguez will be away from the Octagon for the time being. Who would you like to see next for the Mexican star? Do you think the UFC will grant him a title shot against Alexander Volkanovski? Share your thoughts below.