Alistair Overeem released his first statement since he left the UFC.
On Thursday in an Instagram statement, the longtime contender confirmed reports of his release from the organization he has been competing for since 2011, stating that “The final race is over, but what a race it was”
Overeem’s release came following a second round TKO loss to Alexander Volkov in February, which resulted in a two-game winning streak for “The Reem”. During his time in the UFC, Overeem compiled a 12-8 record and competed once for the promotion heavyweight title, losing to Stipe Miocic at UFC 213. He holds notable victories within the octagon over Fabricio Werdum, Mark Hunt , Junior dos Santos, Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar, as well as countless high-profile victories competing for Strikeforce, DREAM, PRIDE and RINGS.
In recent years, he had stated in interviews that his goal was to win another shot at the UFC title, a goal that was hampered by defeats to Volkov and Jairzinho Rozenstruik.
“Looking back on my 10 years in the UFC, this has been the experience of a lifetime,” wrote Overeem. “Thanks to all the UFC staff, the fans and all the fighters I met. I couldn’t have wished for a better career.
“Fighting for all of you was an honor, Overeem added.”
Overeem, 40, was also successful in kickboxing, having won a World Grand Prix K-1 tournament in 2010.
The statement does not appear to address the possibility of Overeem retiring or competing for another combat sports organization. His professional record in MMA is currently 47-19 (1 NC).
Read Overeem’s comments in full below:
The final race came to an end, but what a race it was. Looking back on my 10 years in the UFC, this has been the experience of a lifetime. Thank you very much to all the UFC staff, the fans and all the fighters I met. I couldn’t have wished for a better career. Special thanks to Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta for making everything possible. Fighting for all of you was a great honor.