On Thursday via a statement on Instagram, the longtime heavyweight contender confirmed reports of his release from the organization he’s competed for since 2011, stating that “The final run has come to an end, but what a run it has been.”
Overeem’s release came in the wake of a second-round TKO loss to Alexander Volkov in February, which snapped a two-fight win streak for “The Reem.” During his time with the UFC, Overeem compiled a 12-8 record and competed once for the promotion’s heavyweight title, losing to Stipe Miocic at UFC 213. He holds notable wins inside the octagon over Fabricio Werdum, Mark Hunt, Junior dos Santos, Frank Mir, and Brock Lesnar, in addition to numerous high-profile victories competing for Strikeforce, DREAM, PRIDE, and RINGS.
In recent years, he had stated in interviews that his goal was to earn another shot at a UFC title, a goal that was derailed by losses to Volkov and Jairzinho Rozenstruik.
“Looking back at my 10 years in the UFC, this has been the experience of a lifetime,” Overeem wrote. “Thank you to the entire UFC staff, the fans and all the fighters I came across. Couldn’t have wished for any other better career path.
“Fighting for all of you has been such an honor, Overeem added.”
Overeem, 40, has also had success in kickboxing, having competed won a K-1 World Grand Prix tournament in 2010.
The statement does not appear to address Overeem possibly retiring or competing for another combat sports organization.
Read Overeem’s comments in their entirety below:
The final run has come to an end, but what a run it has been. Looking back at my 10 years in the UFC, this has been the experience of a lifetime. Huge thank you to the entire UFC staff, the fans and all the fighters I came across. Couldn’t have wished for any other better career path. A special thank you to Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta for making everything possible. Fighting for all of you has been such an honor.
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