Alistair Overeem Talks Potential Matchups With Jon Jones & Brock Lesnar

Alistair Overeem is hoping to get another shot at the UFC heavyweight title before he brings an end to his illustrious career. Ranked sixth, he is scheduled to face number-nine heavyweight Augusto Sakai at UFC Vegas 9 this weekend. With a win, ‘The Reem’ keeps himself in the title conversation.

Welcoming Jon Jones To The Heavyweight Division

However, with Jon Jones moving up to heavyweight, Overeem is also entertaining the idea of facing the former UFC light heavyweight champion. Speaking at the UFC Vegas 9 virtual media day (as transcribed by MMA Fighting), the former title challenger said it would be an honour for him.

“Yes, I would do it,” Overeem said. “I think it’s a great fight. I would feel honored.”

The Dutchman has high praise for Jones. Regardless of if he gets to face him or not, he feels that the former champion is destined for success in the heavyweight division.

“I think it’s a great addition to the heavyweight division. I’m actually excited. Fresh blood. I’ve trained with him, he’s very capable. He’s tough, he’s good. So I’m excited about that development.”

Rematch With Brock Lesnar?

The heavyweight division is currently undergoing a bit of a fluctuation following the retirement of Daniel Cormier. ‘DC’ hung up his gloves following his loss to Stipe Miocic for the world title at UFC 252. Despite Jones moving up, UFC president Dana White has confirmed that Francis Ngannou is set to get the next title shot.

With the recent news of Brock Lesnar becoming a free agent, speculation has arisen that the former WWE champion and UFC heavyweight champion may return to mixed martial arts. Overeem faced Lesnar at UFC 141 in 2011, where he won by TKO in the first round. ‘The Reem’ isn’t counting on the pro wrestler to make a comeback to the Octagon, though.

“I don’t really pay attention [to the rest of the division] because I got my fight booked,” Overeem said. “As far as Brock goes, I don’t really think he’s coming back. I was wrong the last time though.”

One Final Run At The Title

Overeem hopes that one or two more wins will get him a shot at the UFC heavyweight title and potentially Miocic. It would be the second time the two have faced. Last time, the two fought at UFC 203 in 2016, Stipe recovered from getting hurt early on to finish the fight near the end of the first round.

At the age 40 and with 65 fights worth of experience, Overeem wants one more title shot but won’t strain himself in the process. He sees the end of the road is near.

“No, I won’t stick around as long as it takes,” Overeem said. “Probably going to do a couple more fights and then it is what it is.”

Can Alistair Overeem get a second shot at the UFC heavyweight title before he hangs up his gloves?

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