Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion, Alistair Overeem has dealt with a lot within the last year, accomplishing almost everything in mixed martial arts.
However, “The Demolition Man” has yet to compete in Strikeforce, or defend his title since defeating challenger, Brett Rogers last year. Overeem will step back into the Strikeforce cage when he faces Fabricio Werdum in the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix next month.
Despite the extended layoff, Overeem said his body is rested.
“After my fight against Todd Duffee I could go on a holiday and enjoy life, instead of being in the gym all the time. So it gave my body a good rest and that was needed,” Overeem said in an exclusive interview with LowKick.com.
While it is often debated on where Overeem fits within the rankings of the heavyweight division, the Dutch kickboxer said there will no longer be a debate on his placement following a victory over his opponent. Werdum already holds a win over Overeem dating back to Pride FC, where he lost via submission.
If he is victorious over Werdum, it would be Overeem’s 10th win in his last twelve fights, and it would surely put him into discussion among the top heavyweights in MMA. One particular bout that fans have been asking for is Overeem to square off against current UFC heavyweight champion, Cain Velasquez. The recent acquisition of Strikeforce could make this anticipated dream fight a reality at some point, but for now, Overeem said his intention is to win the Strikeforce tournament.
“My main focus is on winning the Strikeforce tournament, so UFC is not on my mind right now. I’ve always stated that the Heavyweight division in Strikeforce has the best fighters and I still think so,” he said.
“The guys you named are all very dangerous fighters that can finish fights. Carwin has great knockout power, Brock is a great wrestler and athlete, Frank Mir improved his standup and has a good ground game and the champion Cain Velasquez is very durable and has great wrestling. So those fighters are world-class for sure.”
Strikeforce: Overeem vs. Werdum takes place on June 18, live from the American Airlines Arena in Dallas, Texas.
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