Despite words directly issued by current Strikeforce Heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem, it seems that Japanese promotion DREAM is still sticking with their belief that Overeem will face Ricco Rodriguez at DREAM.15 on July 10. Talk about being in denial.
Overeem specifically talked to MMAFighting about the situation, as The MMA News previously reported. Here’s the meat from that statement:
“I feel very sorry for Ricco Rodriguez’s camp if they still think the fight is on, and I apologize to my fans that have bought a ticket to see me compete. I hope this statement has shed some light on the unfortunate situation.”
It seems pretty cut and dried, but DREAM doesn’t seem to be taking it to heart. Here’s DREAM’s side of the coin, via CagePotato.com:
According to sources close to the fighter, who is currently aboard a plane to Japan under the assumption that the fight is still a go, DREAM officials have denied the reports that have surfaced about Alistair bowing out of the event and they have held steadfast to their claim that Rodriguez will indeed face Overeem.
Hmm seems like Rodriguez is going a long way for nothing, but you never say never when it comes to mixed martial arts.