Former Strikeforce heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem has applied for a license to fight in Nevada, MMA Fighting has learned. Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) Executive Director Keith Kizer confirmed the news with Ariel Helwani.
On April 5th, Kizer revealed Overeem produced a testosterone-to-epitestosterone (T/E) ratio of 14:1 in his urine test that was administered by the NSAC directly after the UFC 146 pre-fight press conference on March 27th. The limit in Nevada is 6:1, thereby putting Overeem far over the legal threshold. Junior Dos Santos, Cain Velasquez, Frank Mir, Roy Nelson and Antonio Silva were also tested, but all passed.
Kizer also confirmed to MMA Fighting Overeem has not yet asked for a testing of the B sample turned in during his original urinalysis. According to commission protocol, Overeem’s original sample was provided into two groups. The original or A sample revealed Overeem to have the 14:1 T/E ratio. Overeem has a right to ask for the B sample to be tested should he feel the A sample inaccurately reflects his T/E levels.
Overeem is currently unlicensed in Nevada and is therefore not subject to punishment, although he’ll have to reasonably explain the cause of the high T/E ratio to obtain a license. The K-1 champion will get his opportunity to do so at a NSAC hearing on April 24th.
Junior dos Santos is still scheduled to face Overeem in the main event of UFC 146 on May 26 in Las Vegas for the UFC heavyweight title. However, that bout will have to be cancelled, re-scheduled or a new opponent found if Overeem is unable to obtain a license.