Tim Means Returns to New Mexico for February UFC Bout
Moriarty native Tim Means headlines a UFC card in Rio Rancho this February following his victory over Thiago Alves.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
Moriarty resident Tim Means competes in a UFC on ESPN+ 25 event held in Rio Rancho in February 2020. The fighter dedicated his appearance to the memory of Pete and Mateo Sandoval following their deaths in a head-on vehicle collision.
Why it matters
Means is looking to pivot his career in a different direction in 2020 after overcoming a severe leg injury sustained in March 2019. This fight marks his first professional appearance in New Mexico since November 2011.
Tim Means carries 42 professional matches of experience into the cage, while his opponent Daniel Rodriguez holds a professional record of 10 wins and 1 loss. Means secured this matchup on January 25, 2020, after an initial opponent fell through.
The players
Tim Means
A professional fighter residing in the 2,000-person town of Moriarty, New Mexico.
Daniel Rodriguez
The professional fighter and opponent for Tim Means with a career record of 10 wins and 1 loss.
Pete and Mateo Sandoval
Two local brothers whose memory Tim Means is honoring through his participation in the Rio Rancho event.
Thiago Alves
The professional fighter whom Tim Means defeated in his last match before the Rio Rancho event.
Niko Price
The opponent who defeated Tim Means in March 2019 during a match held in Wichita, Kansas.
The details
After suffering a leg injury with only 10 seconds remaining in a March 2019 fight against Niko Price, Means utilized the UFC Performance Institute to complete his rehabilitation. He enters this fight after a December 2019 win against Thiago Alves and expects a violent encounter with his current opponent, Daniel Rodriguez.
Timeline
November 2011: Means previously fought in New Mexico.
March 2019: Means lost to Niko Price due to a leg injury.
December 2019: Means defeated Thiago Alves.
January 25, 2020: Means confirmed his opponent.
February 2020: Means competes at UFC on ESPN+ 25.
The Big Picture
The use of the UFC Performance Institute represents a broader trend of professional athletes utilizing dedicated medical and training facilities to extend their careers. This recovery infrastructure allows fighters to return from significant injuries that previously marked the end of professional tenures.
Tim Means enters the cage following a successful comeback win, signaling his readiness for high-level competition despite his previous leg injury. His ability to secure a victory against Daniel Rodriguez remains a key indicator for his potential climb in the divisional rankings.
The takeaway
Fighters often rely on specialized performance centers to rehabilitate complex injuries before returning to professional competition. Maintaining a consistent training schedule after a major setback is essential for athletes aiming to extend their careers.
Further reading
For additional context on local fighting events, visit the Mixed Martial Arts section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Combat Press.
