UK standout Shem Rock has officially signed with the UFC.
Rock (12-1-1), who recently entered free agency after fighting out his contract with Czech-based promotion OKTAGON, is one of four European fighters signed by the UFC this week. He joins 2022 PFL heavyweight champion Ante Delija (25-6) and Polish talents Jakub Wikłacz (16-3-2) and Robert Ruchała (11-1) as the newest additions to the UFC roster.
Rock, who trains out of Liverpool’s renowned Next Generation gym, signed with OKTAGON in 2023. After a draw in his promotional debut against Arthur Lima, he rattled off three consecutive first-round submission victories, quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most exciting lightweight prospects.
He returned to action last month, earning a split decision win over Attila Korkmaz, after which he revealed that he was no longer under contract with OKTAGON. With 11 of his 12 professional wins coming by stoppage—including nine by submission—the 31-year-old has proven himself to be a fan-friendly finisher.
The same can be said for Ante Delija. The 34-year-old Croatian heavyweight boasts 18 finishes in a decorated career that includes victories over Renan Ferreira, Yorgan De Castro, and Maurice Greene. In 2022, he went 4-0—three wins by knockout—on his way to capturing the PFL World Championship and its $1 million grand prize.
Former KSW bantamweight champion Jakub Wikłacz also joins the UFC with a fierce reputation, having dominated the European scene with a well-rounded skill set and high fight IQ. Known for his grappling prowess and slick submissions, Wikłacz has notched multiple wins over top-tier opposition in Poland’s leading MMA promotion. His compatriot, Robert Ruchała, brings a similarly impressive résumé. A dynamic featherweight prospect, Ruchała built his name in KSW with a mix of striking versatility and ground control, suffering just one defeat in his professional career.
With this influx of European talent straight into the promotion, the UFC looks to be making a notable departure from its policy of funnelling the majority of it’s new signings via Dana White’s Contender Series. Could this be the start of a major European expansion by the UFC?
