Is “The Reem” Ready for UFC Glory?

Alistair Overeem faces the fight of his career at UFC 203 against Stipe Miocic when the duo battles it out for the heavyweight title. Overeem has endured a tumultuous career on his path to get to the championship and a chance at glory that has eluded him since his move to the UFC.

The 36-year-old faces a huge challenge against Miocic who boasts an excellent record in his time in the sport, winning the title in his last outing against Fabricio Werdum. As a result, the September 10 UFC 203 will see a thrilling match between the two for which Overeem is backed in the latest betting odds at +104 to defeat the American and clinch his maiden UFC championship (odds on July 29).
 
Rise To The UFC
 
Overeem began his career in the Netherlands, participating in MMA and kickboxing events, and thanks to his success became a regular fixture in the Rings and It’s Showtime shows. His fine performances across Europe and Japan elevated his status in the sport, and resulted in his first major triumph in the 2 Hot 2 Handle light heavyweight tournament final over Dave Vader in 2002.

Overeem dominated the 2H2H series by notching his first title in the Light Heavyweight Championship as he forced Rodney Glunder into submission to win the crown. However, his success was limited to the event as his attempt to advance in the Pride Middleweight Grand Prix series was halted by a defeat to Mauricio Rua.

At the age of 26, Overeem made his first appearance in Strikeforce in the USA, beating future UFC light heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort. Rua had his number in the second bout of their careers at Pride 33, although it sparked a spell of form of one defeat in 13 fights. This included defending the Strikeforce heavyweight title and winning the inaugural DREAM heavyweight championship in back-to-back matches at the end of 2010.

As a result of Overeem’s form he was offered a deal with the UFC following a contract dispute with Strikeforce, which was eventually resolved, letting him begin the next stage of his career.
 
Initial UFC Struggles
 
Overeem made his debut at UFC 141, where he was to battle it out against former WWE star Brock Lesnar in Las Vegas. The Dutchman enjoyed the perfect start to his UFC career by overwhelming Lesnar with his power.

The Reem’s next bout faced him up against Antônio Silva in a heavyweight title eliminator. The Dutchman entered the match full of confidence, but the Brazilian inflicted the first defeat of his UFC career by knocking him out in the third round.

Overeem attempted to respond in his next fight against Travis Browne, and although he came out of blocks firing he was knocked out with 52 seconds remaining in the first round. He restored his reputation in the ring with a battle of endurance against Frank Mir as he claimed victory on a unanimous points decision.

However, he was then dealt the worst defeat of his career by Ben Rothwell, who knocked him out within the opening three minutes of their bout. Overeem’s career was at a crossroads five matches into his UFC career, with a 2-3 record against his name.
 
Redemption And Title Shot
  
The Dutchman was able to restore his confidence and get back to his winning ways late in 2014 when he faced off against Stefan Struve, knocking his compatriot out in the first round to abate his slide. Roy Nelson was the next in line at UFC 185, with both men having a point to prove. The Reem made a strong statement by outbattling the American to claim his fourth UFC victory on a unanimous points decision.

With his confidence in full flow Overeem was to meet Dos Santos in their long-awaited bout in the Brazilian’s return to the sport. After a tentative start the Dutchman overwhelmed Dos Santos with his power in the second round, landing several crunching blows to the body and face before the referee ended the contest.

The 36-year-old returned home to the Netherlands to fight in the main event for UFC Fight Night against Andrei Arlovski. In front of his supporters Overeem produced an excellent display to knock out the Belarusian with a jumping kick and series of punches to earn the win, along with the Performance of the Night bonus.

The Reem has worked extremely hard to earn his redemption over the past year, and now has the opportunity for greatness in the sport which he has given so much to throughout his 17-year career.