Unless that guy in the categorical program at UCLA screwed up BIG TIME, I don't see why he would've been cut. That is, of course, you're talking about a PRELIM spot, and not a categorical spot.
I think any med student at any med school can get a surgical residency, but NYCOM has two distinct advantages: 1) a close relationship with all its affiliated hospitals and 2) a HUGE list of AOA-approved, sponsored programs in almost everything imaginable.
Good luck.
Tim of New York City.