Alistair Overeem explains he’s disappointed at the decision to remove him from the Strikeforce heavyweight grand-prix

Strikeforce heavyweight champion, Alistair Overeem has been speaking for the first time about the decision to remove him from the promotions heavyweight grand-prix which had seen him reach the semi-finals stage, explaining the only person it has benefited is the man who has replaced him.
Speaking via MMAFighting.com, Overeem said:

“Of course I’m disappointed. Winning the tournament was my number one goal. I understand their position, but they have to understand mine, and I’m disappointed we couldn’t work it out.”

“I don’t like to talk about my contract negotiations, but the rumors about me pulling out of the tournament because of that are false. Everybody is trying to find reasons why I was pulled out of the tournament, but I can tell you this: it’s not that difficult. Strikeforce promised me a date in the fall (October/November), I acted on it and chose to go on holiday and start my training in August. Zuffa/Showtime then decided to do it in September and then the ball was in my court, and I had to decline because I know it’s too short of time to be prepared 100 percent Instead of postponing the event they decided that the show must go on and use one of the alternates.”

“It’s their choice, and I respect that but that don’t change the fact that nobody benefits from this situation; the fans, the promotion, the event and myself are the ones that are missing out on a great tournament and a great fight. The only one that benefits out of this whole situation is Daniel Cormier, so I wish him best of luck, and I hope eventually to fight the winner of the tournament for the belt.”

Overeem was due to face Antonio “Big Foot” Silva in the semi-finals of the heavyweight grand-prix but refused to be a part of the September 10^th card after suffering a series of minor injuries last time out. He has now been replaced by the undefeated wrestling powerhouse, Daniel Cormier who now has the opportunity of a lifetime ahead of him. Stay tuned to MMABay for more build-up to this one as we get it.
By Michael Pepper.