Love The Rim...but he needs to step up his game a little here...
Anthony Johnson might have some options. After a fair bit of back and forth with UFC light heavyweight contender Alexander Gustafsson earlier this week, Johnson refocused on his old buddy, Alistair Overeem. In August, Johnson said he'd take a fight with his former Blackzilians teammate 'without hesitation' and that knocking out the 'bully' would put a 'big smile' on his face.
Overeem has largely brushed off comments made by his former team in Boca Raton, but 'Rumble' seems to have gotten under his skin.
"(He said that out of) jealousy," Overeem told MMA Junkie. "I can't think of any other explanations. I have no relationship with the guy.
"All this talking to the media? I don't get," Overeem said. "Where I come from, if I have a problem, I'm coming directly to you and I'm asking you what's up. For me, that's like p-ssy behavior. Maybe I'm missing something and I'm just crazy. On the other hand, I do feel honored people are saying my name in the media. It must mean I have some sort of importance."
Taking exception to Overeem's colorful phrasing, Johnson picked up where UFC president Dana White left off, accusing 'Reem' of dodging a proposed bout with former heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos.
At the time, Overeem claimed to be taking time off to recover from a rib injury. Looking to avoid having to potentially pull out of a fight, he decided it would be prudent to keep the books clear. Set to face Ben Rothwell Sept. 5 at UFC Fight Night: Mousasi vs. Souza, Overeem hasn't competed since grinding out a one-sided unanimous decision against Frank Mir at UFC 169 in February.