· Overeem vs. Rogers On May 15, Possibly For Title

· Article author: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Posted on 03/05 at 09:00 PM

According to Strikeforce color commentator Mauro Renallo, a heavyweight clash slated for May 15 between Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion Alistair Overeem and Brett Rogers may very well be for the Strikeforce heavyweight title, despite earlier reports to the contrary. While Strikeforce president Scott Coker has yet to confirm or deny the rumors, Mauro was quick to emphasize that the update was inside information.

The news of a possible title bout between the two fighters comes with quite a deal of controversy behind it. Rogers (10-1) recently suffered a technical knockout loss to Fedor Emelianenko last November, the first of his career. Emelianenko is currently slated to face UFC veteran Fabricio Werdum on the same card. Rogers holds victories over former UFC Champion Andrei Arlovski and Iron Ring Champion Abongo Humphrey.

Overeem (32-11, 1 NC) won the Strikeforce title in 2007 after defeating Paul Buentello by TKO in November of 2007 and has not fought for the promotion since, essentially taking the division hostage. He has had continued success competing overseas in MMA and K1 kickboxing events alike, leaving many to wonder about his exact motives for not fighting in the US, but thus far it has been all speculation. Since the victory over Buentello, Overeem has defeated the likes of Mark Hunt, James Thompson, and Kazuyuki Fujita. He also battered MMA legend Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic before landing an illegal low blow which brought the bout to a halt and resulted in a no contest.

While reports and rumors continue to circulate about the event and fights being considered for it, nothing has been officially announced by Strikeforce concerning a date, venue, or potential bouts. The yet-to-be confirmed May 15 Strikeforce event promises to be a stacked card full of heavyweight action.

Rumored bouts include: