UFC Heavyweight contender Alistair "the Demolition Man" Overeem has been given a contract extension by the promotion. The extension comes off the heels of Overeem's recent three-fight win streak.
Overeem's latest win, a second round TKO over former champion Junior Dos Santos, was the last fight on his previous contract, MMA Mania reported. However, with the win, the Dutch fighter finds himself in a situation where he can certainly contend for the belt.
When asked about the UFC heavyweight title, Overeem stated that it was one of the biggest factors for him resigning to the UFC, MMA Junkie reported. The heavyweight contender also stated that the negotiations between him and the promotion have always been cordial, and that he cannot be happier with the situation he finds himself in.
Rumors had been circulating that Overeem would be rejoining former Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker at Bellator; however, ultimately the lure of the title brought him back to the UFC.
The confirmation of the 35-year-old fighter signing his new contract came via his official Twitter account, where he tweeted a picture of himself signing the contract. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, which is the practice in the UFC, although most UFC veteran contracts are typically for about four to five fights.
As it stands, Overeem could likely contend for the title within this year. Which is a stark contrast to where he was just a few years ago, as Overeem was on a streak of fights which saw him go 1 - 3.
The title picture for the heavyweight division is currently in disarray, as Current champion Fabrico Werdum was supposed to fight former champion Cain Velasquez; however, Velasquez had to pull out of the fight with an injury. The replacement, short notice fight which pitted Werdum against Stipe Mioic was also canceled due to an injury of the champion.
While the fight between Mioic and Werdum is to take place, it does appear that Overeem will be getting a shot at the winner, though it is unknown at this point if the Dutch heavyweight will take another fight till then or not.
Check out the highlights from Overeem's last fight here: