Alistair Overeem Taking Voluntary Drug Tests in Nevada Is a Good Thing
By Bleachersreport
LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 30: Alistair Overeem celebrates his win over Brock Lesnar during the UFC 141 event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on December 30, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
I know I've been tough on Alistair Overeem in the past. I felt—and still feel, to this day—that he was solely responsible for the controversy surrounding his missed drug tests at the end of 2011 and his actual test failure a few months ago.
But I have to say, his proclamation that he's in Nevada today to take a voluntary drug test is a great decision.
Overeem tweeted the news this morning:
Quote:
@Alistairovereem
I'm doing a drug test today to build confidence with the Nevada state athletic commission and because I respect and appreciate the UFC.
20 Jun 12
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Overeem also had a message for UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos, who boldly proclaimed last week that he would request that Overeem submit a blood test before receiving a title fight upon his return from suspension:
Quote:
@Alistairovereem
And to let junior know I am a clean fighter, I'm all natural Junior.. and I am coming for you
20 Jun 12
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What do we make of this? Is it a public relations stunt designed to earn Overeem some goodwill with the UFC and its fans? Possibly.
But even if it's a
PR move at heart, it's still a good move. Voluntarily taking and passing multiple drug tests in Nevada over the next few months will prove that Overeem isn't using his suspension and time away from the Octagon to go even heavier on the juice.
I'm still not sure I buy Overeem's proclamation that he's a clean fighter because eight months of evidence is pointing the opposite direction. And despite my belief that Overeem deserves a title shot upon his return from suspension, I still think he has plenty to prove, both in the court of public opinion and to the UFC and the commissions that support them.
But regardless, this is a wise decision. Kudos to Overeem for stepping up and doing the right thing.
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