In an unfortunate turn of events, SBG Manchester’s Saul Rogers has received the news that he will not be fighting for the UFC. Rogers was due to compete in the final of the Ultimate Fight Season 22 against fellow European Artem Lobov but had visa issues which meant he couldn’t fly to Vegas to compete.
UFC President Dana White was not happy with Rogers and UFC officials have since confirmed that he has been released from the promotion. “He lied on his application, stuff that you have to fill out for the athletic commission, it’s not good.”
Following the controversy, Rogers himself released the following statement on social media.
“This was not done with any malicious or devious intent, but nonetheless, it was my mistake and I accept the consequences. I can assure you that this is not going to stop me from achieving my dreams and I’ll use this experience to come back stronger than ever.”
Tony’s Thoughts;
Well first and foremost it’s a huge disappointment for Rogers who is one of the very best at 155lbs in the UK and he proved that during his time on the show. It is unlikely that the UFC will take him back anytime soon and that is damming for any fighter on his level, however, there are other promotions out there and he can certainly look to capitalise off of his success on the show and play promotions off against each other in order to get a decent contract.
The likes of BAMMA, KSW and Cage Warriors in Europe will almost certainly battle for his attention and he would slot in nicely into the Lightweight division of any of those names or others. He obviously also has the opportunity to test the waters stateside with the likes of Bellator and WSOF likely to bring offers to the table.
Rogers will be hugely disappointed that the opportunity to fight for the UFC has been taken away from him but he needs to focus on the positives and look to continue to build his record and hopefully that call back will come sooner rather than later.