The UFC has officially parted ways with 12-year veteran Shem Rock after back-to-back losses, removing him from the roster alongside another fighter. Rock, who fought multiple UFC Hall of Famers during his long tenure, ends his UFC career on a brief two-fight skid. This roster cleanup follows Gilbert Burns' retirement after his loss to Mike Malott at UFC Winnipeg. The move signals the promotion's ongoing talent refresh amid a packed 2026 schedule, including this weekend's UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas headlined by Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal. Expect Rock to explore free agency or retirement, impacting the welterweight/middleweight depth.
UFC Fight Night: Aljo vs Zalal
Saturday, April 25, 2026
