UFC: Cain Velasquez Talks About a Fight with Alistair Overeem

In an interview for Peace Magazine, UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez gave props to the new Light Heavyweight title holder Jon Jones, and thinks that Brock Lesnar stands a good chance against Junior Dos Santos.

The most interesting topic that Velasquez talked about was a potential showdown with Strikeforce Heavyweight champ Alistair Overeem. 

In regards to fighting Overeem, Velasquez simply replied “that would be good” at first. 

Of course the undefeated fighter did not leave his comments at that.

“I'm hoping to see what happens with the tournament and I'm hoping to get back as soon as possible. I think Overeem is a really good fighter, he's explosive, I definitely think he's one of the best out there right now.” 

Velasquez also goes on to say that he would love to sign this fight for the fans' sake, and that while he respects Overeem, he does not fear him. 

“That would be awesome for the fans as well. No, I'm not scared (of taking one of his big knees), it's part of the sport you get hit, you have to be confident." 

Highly regarded MMA website Sherdog.com currently has Velasquez ranked as the top heavyweight fighter in the world, while Overeem is ranked at the eighth spot.

“The Demolition Man” won the Strikeforce Heavyweight title back in November of 2007, and has since also became the DREAM Interim Heavyweight and K-1 World Grand Prix Champion. 

While no one’s ever questioned Overeem’s talent, his priorities certainly have been questionable since he’s only defended his Strikeforce title once in about three and a half years. 

His quarterfinal bout in the Strikeforce Heavyweight Tournament takes place on June 18^th, with his opponent being Fabricio Werdum. 

His title is not at stake, but this is typical in the rules that surround a tournament. 

Meanwhile, Velasquez is in the midst of a 9-0 professional career since making his debut in late 2006. 

A former captain on the Arizona State wrestling team, Velasquez is one of the few heavyweights that are extremely well rounded. 

As expected, his wrestling is on another level, but his submission skills are very efficient and his striking is deadly.

Eight of Velasquez’s nine wins have come to way of knockout. 

Seeing a highly regarded striker like Overeem go head to head with Velasquez has all the makings of an instant classic. 

It is possible that Velasquez’s wrestling could be the difference maker, but still, the main intrigue of this fantasy fight would be that both fighters are equally capable of getting a knockout. 

The fact that Overeem’s submission skills should really challenge Velasquez’s jiu-jitsu game only adds to the appeal. 

Will this fight ever happen?  In all likelihood, it is way too early to tell, as Velasquez is still recovering from rotator cuff surgery and is not expected to return any earlier than September.