Overeem Ready For A Title Opportunity

With over 20 years of experience inside an MMA cage, Alistair Overeem has seemingly done it all. Whether it is with PRIDE, Strikeforce or DREAM, Overeem (46-18, 1NC) is a three-time world champion. One title that has eluded him in his career, however, is the UFC Heavyweight Title.

Overeem has only fought once for UFC gold; losing to Stipe Miocic at UFC 203 in 2016. Since then, he has gone 5-3 in his last eight fights. Just turning 40, “Demolition Man” is hoping for a shot soon.

At UFC on ESPN 8 this last weekend, Overeem was able to survive an early onslaught at the hands of Walt Harris. Although he suffered an injury above his eye, Overeem was able to get on top of Harris and control the last half of the first round. He then dominated the second round, striking Harris in the head while on his back. The referee had no choice but to call the fight off. Following the bout, Overeem discussed his future goals, which includes another title shot.

“We’re still hunting for the title,” Overeem stated, via MMA Fighting. “I would say also I’m in the last phase of my career. So those two things are a little bit on my mind. Finish the career and one more run at the title.”

Overeem was on a two-fight win streak before getting knocked out by Jairzinho Rozenstruik in December. Replacing Harris, Rozenstruik slashed the face of Overeem, forcing him to get surgery to repair his lip. Ranked eighth in the UFC’s heavyweight rankings, Overeem is hoping the win can give him momentum. With it, he could be looking at a title shot by 2021.

“Let’s look at the rankings,” Overeem stated after the fight. “Fight again later this year. Maybe we’re going to see if there’s one more shot at the title.”