Alistair Overeem Says he “Probably” Already Had The Coronavirus

Recently Alistair Overeem reported he’s back in the United States and is beginning preparations for his next bout, despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Well, recently Overeem made some comments which could signal why he elected to travel.

Overeem discusses the pandemic, importance of boosting immune system

A few days ago, the Dutch fighter reported via social media that he’s back in the U.S., and that he’s set to begin a training camp.

Overeem also recently did an interview with the Duello Channel. Not surprisingly, the issue of the pandemic came up.

While talking about his recent travels, and how people should prepare to fight the virus, Overeem said this (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“This is the time to eat healthy and be healthy, right?” Overeem said. “It’s very good for your immune system.

As an athlete, I’ve been always very obsessed with health and the immune system.

That’s why I’m not really afraid of the virus. I’ve probably already had it. I was in Thailand during Chinese New Year.

It was flooded with the Chinese and some people who were close to me had symptoms. That’s what it’s like now in the whole coronavirus discussion.”

“For your immune system, you should diet, eat to strengthen your immune system,” Overeem said. “Read some books. There’s a lot to learn about what to eat and what not to eat.

There are a lot of foods people are eating that they do not realize is not healthy – and also combinations of food. People, you’ve got homework to do.”

Hopefully, Overeem stays healthy and safe, despite his recent travels. 

Overeem’s next fight?

Before UFC cards were postponed for the time being, Overeem was booked to fight Walt Harris in Portland on April 11th. Now it remains to be seen whether he ends up facing Harris next, and when.

But, while talking about the UFC’s upcoming schedule and when he wants to compete, Overeem said this.

“…Of course, because my work is affected by it. I think everybody in the world is right now, right? The news is there every day.

I think everybody is inside all over the world. I have friends all over the world. My contacts – everybody is inside. Everything is shut down.

“This will be not a couple of weeks. Maybe, four weeks. Maybe, six at the most. Then, it will start back up again.

I think slowly. I think not immediately it’ll (get back) to the same as always. It has to start up. I think when it starts up, the UFC will be the first to hold an event. I expect to fight there.”

We’ll see what happens. Overeem is coming off a late, stoppage loss to Jairzinho Rozenstruik in December after winning back-to-back bouts.