“If I Take a Break It’s Gonna Be Done”- Alistair Overeem Opens Up After Recent Victory

UFC Heavyweight Alistair Overeem spoke to the media following his statement victory over game challenger Augusto Sakai. The bout was the featured main event for UFC Fight Night 176 that took place at the Apex Facility in Vegas. “The Demolition Man” earned the early fifth-round stoppage after successfully grounding his opponent and landing massive shots in mount.

What’s more, he was able to capitalize on his supreme cardio as the fight progressed into the championship rounds. Sakai had no answer for Overeem’s drag-down single-leg trips, and subsequent hefty follow-up elbows and hammer fists. “The Reem” is now primed to face an opponent within the top 5 and possibly walk back into contention at age 40.

Alistair Overeem speaks out

The former DREAM, Strike Force and K-1 Grand Prix champion has seen it all when it comes to active combat competition. Overeem has been fighting at the highest level ever since the early days of his career in Pride FC. He touched upon his motivation and the ability to get up despite putting over two decades in the game.

“There’s a couple of reasons [for being motivated]. I’ve dedicated my life to it basically, training for 29 years, competing for 23. The first being in 1997. Love the game, guess I’m good at it. I don’t like 9-5, it’s been a long time since I’ve done 9-5 and I just really love the game.”

Additionally, he expressed how his recent camp change to Denver, Colorado helped to keep the flame burning. What’s more, his training with Curtis Blaydes out of Team Elevation has translated well into his ground game. He has reinvented himself despite his mileage in the fight game.

“There’s also the time issue, I can still do it now. If I take a break, If I stop, it’s gonna be done, it’s gonna be over. You can’t come back after two years or three years. I just really love the lifestyle, the guys at team elevation are great, they motivate me and I just love the game.”

With 47 victories in 65 professional bouts, it’s easy to see why Overeem is a legend in the sport. Moreover, he has been extremely consistent as of late and managed to string together meaningful victories. By adding another win to his streak, “The Demolition Man” won’t be denied his shot at gold.

Also Watch: UFC on ESPN+ 34/ Fight Night 176: Alistair Overeem post-fight interview