Shem Rock set for UFC debut after seven years on the run and a not guilty verdict
Liverpool lightweight Shaqueme 'Shem' Rock finally gets his UFC chance in Qatar after years abroad, a cleared name in 2022, and a four-fight Oktagon win streak.
From seven years on the run to UFC debut
Liverpool lightweight Shem Rock is preparing for his UFC debut in Qatar after seven years on the run, during which he fought to clear his name from a burglary charge he maintains he did not commit.
Rock, whose full name is Shaqueme Rock, fled Toxteth in 2014 at age 20 after being charged with a violent burglary. He feared prison and decided to vanish before authorities could act.
He crossed into France on the Eurostar and, after a sequence of moves including Thailand and Malaysia, found Brazilian jiu-jitsu that began to steer his life in a new direction.
In Malaysia he trained hard and even appeared on two martial arts reality shows in Asia, but TV producers cut ties when they learned he was wanted by UK police.
Seeking opportunities, he later moved to Ireland to advance his MMA career, yet in 2021 he was arrested in Belfast and spent six months in custody awaiting trial. In April 2022 he was found not guilty, clearing his name.
With his name restored, Rock joined Next Generation MMA in Liverpool alongside Paddy Pimblett and racked up a four-fight winning streak in Europe’s Oktagon promotion.
Now 32, he is set to make his UFC debut against Nurullo Aliev in a lightweight bout on the card in Qatar. His Liverpool teammate Luke Riley also debuts on the same event against Bogdan Grad.
“That was my old life. This is my new life, and the sky is the limit,” Rock told INLIBER Sport, reflecting on the obstacles he has overcome and the hunger that remains.
“Everything I’ve been through, the hurdles, the doors slammed in my face, the haters — it’s built my character,” he added.
Back on track after acquittal
Rock emphasizes that the turning point came after the 2022 acquittal, when he could commit fully to MMA again and dedicate himself to training without distraction.
- Rock’s UFC debut will be watched closely in Liverpool and beyond as a testament to resilience and late-career breakthroughs.
- Teammate Luke Riley also makes his UFC bow on the same card.
Summary: Seven years on the run, a not guilty verdict, and a UFC dream realized — Rock’s journey is a blueprint for resilience. BBC Sport
Discover engaging topics and analytical content in Sports News as of 22-11-2025. The article titled " Shem Rock set for UFC debut after seven years on the run and a not guilty verdict " provides new insights and practical guidance in the Sports News field. Each topic is meticulously analyzed to deliver actionable information to readers.
The topic " Shem Rock set for UFC debut after seven years on the run and a not guilty verdict " helps you make smarter decisions within the Sports News category. All topics on our website are unique and offer valuable content for our audience.