Shem Rock Has His Sights Set on Usman Nurmagomedov After UFC Exit

Shem Rock is ready for the next chapter. After a surprisingly abrupt departure from the UFC, the fiery Liverpool native is slated to make his promotional debut at PFL Dubai on November 14th against Connor Hughes. Catching up with Jake Noecker on Home of Fight, Rock candidly broke down his free-agency decision, his thoughts on the current MMA landscape, and the massive fights he is actively chasing under the PFL and Bellator banner.

For Rock, signing a multi-fight deal with the PFL was a no-brainer. Looking across the combat sports ecosystem, he noted that the PFL offered the most compelling challenges, the deepest roster, and the most exciting momentum, especially following the recent Bellator merger and the continued expansion of MVP MMA.

"I like fights that get me out of bed. I like something that's a little bit of a chase. I don't just want no easy money," Rock explained. "I like what's going on with the whole major, with the Bellator, PFL, and now they're doing the MVP... It's making noise, lad. Netflix. It's exciting. So I thought, 'You know what? Little bit of Shem show over there, lad. We'll spruce it up a little bit.'"

The UFC Release and the Value of Entertainment

Rock did not hide the fact that his UFC release caught him slightly off guard. Having fought through an injury at UFC London, he felt he had gone above and beyond to stay active for the promotion, making the subsequent cut a bitter pill to swallow. However, the Scouser holds no grudges and refuses to dwell on the past.

"I thought it was one of them scratch mine, I'll scratch yours. Do you know what I mean? But, uh, I get it," Rock admitted. "Like, I'm not crying. I'm... don't cry over spilled milk. I get it. Like, it's a tough road industry."

The conversation briefly touched on the controversial debate of entertainment versus pure skill in modern MMA. While Rock considers himself a martial arts purist who deeply appreciates high-level technique, he acutely understands the business side of the sport. He noted that he actively seeks out vocal opponents who help sell the fight, as opposed to stoic fighters who refuse to promote.

Targeting Usman Nurmagomedov

Looking past his impending debut against Hughes, a fighter Rock claims is painfully one-dimensional and motivated solely by "snitch shouts", the Scouser is aiming straight for the top. When asked about his ultimate goals within the promotion, Rock dismissed the idea of slowly chasing a belt, demanding instead the biggest, most lucrative names available.

Naturally, this led to a hypothetical discussion regarding reigning Bellator Lightweight Champion Usman Nurmagomedov. While rumors continue to swirl regarding Nurmagomedov's contractual future, Rock loves the stylistic matchup should the Dagestani champion remain with the promotion.

"I think it'd be a good fight stylistically. He's more of a kicker than a puncher. I'm more of a kicker than a puncher," Rock stated confidently. "We can both grapple. I think I'm the better grappler... The Scouse wrestling beating the daggy wrestling."