Alistair Overeem Is Prepared to Run Through Another Opponent to Get a Title Shot

Speaking at the post-fight press conference at UFC 213 (transcript via MMAjunkie), Alistair Overeem discussed his win over Fabricio Werdum on the card. Overeem won a controversial majority decision. Below are some highlights.

Overeem’s thoughts on the fight: “I believe the first two-and-a-half rounds I was dominating, picking my shots. The third round was not too clean – a little bit ugly if I’m honest. All respect to Fabricio. His striking is improving with every fight, it seems. He’s a tough opponent, and he’s there to fight. I clipped him a couple times hard, I cut him, I rocked him, and he rocked me. When you fight (someone of Fabricio’s caliber), you know it’s not going to be easy.”

Overeem on Dana White’s thoughts that it wasn’t an effective win for a title shot: “Dana White is the boss, and it was a decision. It was not a clear-cut, dominant performance. I’m here to do whatever’s needed to get that title shot. If we have to run through somebody else, then so be it. If we’re going to get the title shot now, then so be it. I’m a fighter first, and I like to stay active. We’re going to do whatever’s needed to get to the title. Just be positive. I like my development as a fighter. I believe every opponent gives me the opportunity to become a better fighter. If we have to face somebody else first, fine.”

Overeem on how he feels right now: “My clock is ticking, but I feel great. I’m still beating these top opponents. The way I see it is my body’s still perfect. I came into this fight (with) zero problems, zero injuries. I’m going to keep going until I don’t like it anymore. Up until now I love it. I enjoy my career, I enjoy the traveling, I enjoy the training, and I enjoy the development. Every opponent makes me a better fighter. And let’s be honest: It would be a lot less interesting, more boring if I wouldn’t be around. Stipe Miocic, I’ve got something to set right with him. I think my hand is shuffled differently this time. But let’s see what happens.”