This weekend the ‘Demolition Man’ Alistair Overeem (34-11, 1NC) looks for some redemption in Dallas, Texas when he steps into the cage to re-match opponent Fabricio Werdum. Both men are participating in Strikeforce’s Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament, which takes place this Saturday at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Their first meeting took place back in May of 2006 at a Pride Total Elimination Absolute event. Both were taking part in the opening round of the Pride Openweight Grand Prix tournament. At that time Overeem was not as large as he is now, fighting as a light heavyweight in the openweight tournament and appearing much smaller than Werdum. Werdum would end the fight in the second round at 3:43 with a kimura submission.
This time Overeem, who is about 50 lbs heavier, carries the crown of the Strikeforce and DREAM promotions, as well as 2010 K-1 Grand Prix belt into the cage, feels the outcome of this fight will be much different than his first meeting with Werdum.
“This fight is going to be different than the last time. You’re going to see a way more aggressive Alistair Overeem, and I’ll be looking for the knockout from the first second,”
“I have a lot of motivation, believe me,” commented Overeem. “I’m just happy. I’m just happy this fight is happening. I wanted to fight Fabricio then the tournament came around, for me and excellent opportunity to fight him. I’m motivated, you’re going to see that next week exactly how motivated I am.”
“I feel ready, I’ve been ready for a couple of weeks now and I’m just very eager to step in the cage and show all the fans what I got.”
HT: MMAWeekly.com for the quote