Member-only story
A Final Run at Heavyweight Gold for Alistair Overeem
Dutch MMA veteran aiming for a last title shot in the twilight of his career
New Year’s Eve, December 31st 2011. For a select group of people, that evening is better known as “UFC 141: Lesnar vs. Overeem”. Both men pushed the limits of the heavyweight division: Brock Lesnar weighed in at 266lbs, Alistair Overeem at 263. Not an ounce of fat on either of them; there may have never been as much muscle mass in the octagon as on that night. The match was promoted as the ultimate ‘wrestler versus striker’ match-up. Could Overeem maintain his footing against the insane speed and power of this colossal pro-wrestler? Could Lesnar hold his own against the devastating blows of the reigning K-1 champion? Many eyes were upon the octagon, on this hulking newcomer, on the long-awaited debut of Alistair Overeem in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
All questions were answered quickly and decisively. The Reem needed little time to dismantle Lesnar, avoiding the takedown attempt, walking straight through his punches, punishing the body of the former UFC champion with brutal kicks and knee strikes. After yet another kick landed on Lesnar’s midsection with the force of a baseball bat, Lesnar winced and doubled up in pain, didn’t defend himself anymore; the referee waved it off. Smiling, arm raised…
