While it's been 11 months since Dutch striker Alistair Overeem (34-11) defended Strikeforce's heavyweight title, the champion isn't able to enter the tournament and defend his belt.
AOL FanHouse reported a staph infection forced Overeem out of his planned Jun. 18 bout with Fabricio Werdum (14-4-1) on the main card of the organization's "Overeem vs. Werdum" event in Dallas, Texas., and Strikeforce has since officially announced the champ's withdrawal.
According to AOL FanHouse Werdum will still fight on the card against alternate Shane del Rosario.
Initial attempts by MMAjunkie.com (UFC blog for UFC news, UFC rumors, fighter interviews and event previews/recaps | MMAjunkie.com
) to reach Strikeforce officials for comment were unsuccessful.
Overeem earned Strikeforce's heavyweight title in a November 2007 win over Paul Buentello.
After that it took more than 2 years before Overeem defended his belt against The Grim, Brett Rogers.
"We have not been contacted," Reilly stated. "We wish Alistair a speedy recovery."
"Strikeforce: Del Rosario vs. Werdum" will still feature the other quarterfinal of the 8-man tournament.
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