UFC Cuts 12-Year Vet Shem Rock After Back-to-Back Losses

The UFC has officially removed Shem Rock from its roster after back-to-back losses, ending his brief tenure in the promotion. Rock, a 12-year UFC veteran who fought multiple Hall of Famers, joins two other fighters cut this week amid a busy 2026 schedule. This follows Gilbert Burns' retirement after his recent loss to Mike Malott in UFC Winnipeg. The moves signal roster housekeeping as UFC prepares for upcoming events like this weekend's Fight Night in Las Vegas headlined by Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal. Expect Rock to explore free agency or other promotions next.