Renowned Dutch mixed martial artist and kickboxer Alistair Overeem announced his retirement at 43.
“I really decided to stop fighting. I no longer consider it for myself. It was 25 years in combat, a lot of amazing things happened. But now it's time to pay attention to your health. This is my next chapter,” said the heavyweight in an interview with Jon Bravo Films.
Overeem has competed in professional MMA since 1999, with 47 wins and 19 losses. The Dutchman was the champion of Strikeforce, Dream and fought for the UFC title. In kickboxing, he managed to win the 2010 K-1 Grand Prix.
Rome last fought in October 2022 against Badr Hari at Glory: Collision 4. He won the fight via unanimous decision. Later, however, Overeem's doping test gave a positive result and the meeting was declared invalid.