5.) Chuck Liddell – Pride Total Elimination 2003:
Overeem may have inexperience to blame for this loss, which took place 11 years ago in the quarterfinals of the Pride 2003 Middleweight Grand Prix. It was also against one of the finest light heavyweights in UFC history.
A lanky “Reem” looked overmatched against “The Iceman,” who blasted him with a few of his trademark unorthodox punches to put Overeem’s lights out with a quickness.
Granted, Liddell wasn’t the bulldozing champion that he soon turned into for the UFC, but it was clear that he was on his way towards accomplishing that lofty goal. Overeem, on the other hand, found success fighting lesser competition outside of the United States.
This fight was only the second knockout loos of Overeem’s career, but it was obviously a sign of things to come.
Overeem was overmatched when faced with an aggressive striker, and he’s still having trouble putting them away today. If he hasn’t learned to weather the storm at 34 years old, he probably never will. His loss to Liddell only proved that many punishing shots were in the future for Overeem’s lackluster striking defense.
The jury’s still out on his UFC future, but if he sustains one more knockout loss, expect him to be cut.
What do you think “The Reem’s” fate should be? Let us know in the comments below!
