Shem Rock was paired with undefeated Nurullo Aliev, who is 2-0 in the UFC with wins over Rafael Alves and Joe Solecki. The tough Tajikistan native overworked Rock with constant threats of the takedown, combined with some heavy shots to the feet.
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Rock had a great opportunity in the final round when he was able to mount Aliev, but the Tajik Eagle effectively wrestled his way out of the situation.
Rock seemed to start slowly and never really get going as he couldn’t find his range consistently nor could he work out his wrestling game effectively.
Shem Rock can still be a problem
At 32 years old and with an extensive career in smaller promotions, Rock can still make a run into the top 15 at lightweight. He’s had a good career with Oktagon and with teammate and coach Paddy Pimbeltt making a run at the lightweight title, there’s a good chance we’ll see Rock on a Pimblett undercard at some point.
Rock’s teammate, Luke Riley, will be hoping for a better performance later when he takes on Bogdan Grad.
The co-main event pits Ian Machado Garry against Belal Muhammad in a potential No. 1 contender at welterweight. The main event will see Arman Tsarukyan take on Dan Hooker in an exciting lightweight match.
UFC Qatar will be a night to forget for Shem Rock, but making your UFC debut is always something to be proud of.
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