Following a messy split with his former gym and management, current UFC heavyweight No. 1 contender Alistair Overeem has revealed that he has joined Authentic Sports Management and will be training in Florida with the “Blackzilians.”
The former Strikeforce, K-1 and Dream champion is still involved in legal action with his former representation, Golden Glory. Both sides have engaged in verbal warfare after Golden Glory attempted to garnish Overeem’s purse from UFC 141, where he defeated former champ Brock Lesnar.
Along with the signing, Overeem will be relocating to the United States. For his first Octagon appearance, the Dutchman spent time at Xtreme Couture and Reign Training Center, as well as in his native Holland.
The striking specialist stated that he was not actively seeking new management, but after meeting with Authentic, it was the right fit.
“I saw what kind of added value they bring to the table. I saw firsthand what they do for their fighters and that’s not even comparable to the situation in Holland,” said Overeem.
Overeem also hinted that a number of his current trainers will make the transition with him to the US, including Fabrice Deters and Remco Peperkamp, who continued to work with him in preparation for the Lesnar fight in December.
By joining the “Blackzilians,” Overeem will train with fellow countryman (and kickboxing stalwart) Tyrone Spong, as well as current light heavyweight No. 1 contender Rashad Evans at the Florida gym.
Rob Tatum is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report MMA. You can also find Rob’s work at TheMMACorner.com. For anything related to MMA, Follow @RobTatumMMA.
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