Alistair Overeem Hopes to Make One Last Title Run, Scoffs at Idea Stipe Miocic’s “Scared” to Fight

Since Alistair Overeem turned 40 year’s old today, the decorated fighter understands that his storied fighting career is close to being done. But, “The Demolition Man” hasn’t abandoned his dream of adding the UFC’s heavyweight championship to his resume.

Overeem knows he’s in the final “phase” of his career

Overeem faced Walt Harris in the headliner of UFC Florida on Saturday, and early on, it looked like he was headed for another loss. Harris dropped the Dutch fighter not long in and cut Overeem open.

The seasoned veteran remained calm, however, and made it out of the round. Then, in round two, Overeem secured his 46th, professional MMA win by stunning Harris with a headkick and finishing the fight with ground-and-pound punches.

So what’s next for Overeem? Following his 40th birthday? While talking to the press afterward, the dangerous fighter said this (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“We’re still hunting for the title,” Overeem said.”I would say also I’m in the last phase of my career, so those two things are on my mind: Finish up the career, and one more run at the title.”

Could Overeem make another run and win UFC gold at this juncture of his career? It’s possible. Although, even die-hard “Reem” fans would likely concede it’s going to be tough.

As it stands right now, Overeem is ranked #8 in the UFC’s heavyweight division, and fighters who have defeated him before, like Curtis Blaydes, Francis Ngannou and Jairzinho Rozenstruik are all ranked ahead of him (including the champ, Stipe Miocic).

So, the legendary fighter would need to score some pretty big wins, and in a hurry, in order to secure a title shot.

Overeem shoots down idea Miocic’s “scared” to defend title

As far as the heavyweight title, it’s not clear right now when it will be up for grabs again. The UFC is hoping to book a rubber match between Miocic and Daniel Cormier.

But, due to the coronavirus pandemic, Miocic has said he’s not interested in fighting until fall.

Miocic is a firefighter and a paramedic, so those responsibilities right now are first and foremost for him. In addition, Miocic has said he’s not going to fight, until restrictions for the pandemic are lifted and he can have a proper training camp.

Due to this, some people have questioned whether Miocic’s hoping to avoid a third fight with Cormier, who is set to retire soon. But, while talking about Miocic during the post-fight presser, “Reem” had this to say about the champ.

“Stipe is his own man – he makes his own decisions,” Overeem said. “You can’t go around and say he’s scared or whatever. I think that’s nonsense.

He’s tough. He’s proven it over and over again. I don’t really have much to say about him.”

Yup. The idea that a man who has defeated the likes of Cormier, Francis Ngannou and Overeem is afraid to fight, anyone, is pretty ridiculous.