European MMA sensation Shem Rock loves knowing his story has helped others, even if he’s tired of sharing it.
Earlier this year, Ultimate Fighting Championship signed the 12-1-1 Liverpool to a contract following his successful five-fight run under the OKTAGON MMA banner. So far, Rock, 31, hasn’t booked his Octagon debut, but his story is already earning him a lot of attention from fight fans.
When he was 19 years old, Rock was arrested in connection with an aggravated burglary, a crime Rock insists he did not commit. After being interrogated and released on bail, Rock received a phone call stating that his release was a mistake and that he was ordered to turn himself back in to authorities.
After telling his representative that he would surrender himself the next day, Rock opted to flee the country, leaving Liverpool for France before reaching Thailand and eventually settling in Malaysia.
It was there that Rock came across BJJ and immediately fell in love with the sport.
“If I’m honest, I hate telling my story,” Rock said in an interview with Bloody elbow. “I just want to show up, fight and be left alone. But people contact me and say I changed their lives – people I’ve never met. I’ve had taxi drivers turn around and tell me I saved their lives.”
“So not telling my story feels even worse than sharing it. It’s like selling a piece of yourself, but when you hear how it helps others, it’s worth it.”
Shem Rock eventually returned to Liverpool
At one point, Rock was in talks to sign with ONE Championship before the Asia-based promotion learned of his fugitive status and halted talks. That prompted Rock to return to Europe, where he was ultimately found not guilty of aggravated burglaries.
Since then, Rock has teamed up with UFC superstar Paddy Pimblett and his Next Generation gym in Liverpool. Rock appeared at UFC London in March, sparking speculation that he had signed with the promotion.
Rock is undefeated in his last seven fights and has a 91% finish rate, with nine wins via submission and two knockouts.
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