UFC top heavyweight Alistair Overeem (39-14-0) fueled the fighting dream for Filipinos during a fan event at SM Megamall this past weekend.
The occasion featured the fighter out of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, participating in a live Q&A, sparring session, EA Sports UFC tournament, and meet-and-greet with the Filipino faithful.
Among the highlights was an open workout with a fully decked trainer where “The Reem” showed off his grizzly swagger, showcasing powerful combinations of booming jabs and straight kicks that have defined his bouts against the likes of Roy Nelson, Stefan Struve, and Brock Lesnar among others.
The former Strikeforce and DREAM Heavyweight Champion endeared himself further to the Filipino faithful because of his support to Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao.
“I definitely am [rooting for Pacquiao]. I had the courtesy of meeting him once and he’s a gentleman inside and outside the ring,” shared the 6’4 gentle giant. “He is very positive and humble, a little bit in the background, and doesn’t have the flash even if he’s very famous. That is something admirable about him.”
Aside from the Demolition Man’s appearance, the event also unveiled the top 5 candidates of the UFC Octagon Girl Manila search presented by Monster Energy namely Mirtle Keith Gimenez, Red Dela Cruz, Christine Elle, Krystal Pelomiana, and Nicole Laurell. Joining the renowned Arianny Celeste in the Octagon will be one finalist whose fate will be determined by fan voting on the UFC website.
Sponsored by Phoenix Petroleum and supported by SM and ABS-CBN, Overeem’s appearance is part of UFC’s commitment in bringing top MMA talent to the Philippines in support of the country’s first UFC spectacle.
The first UFC live event in the Philippines, UFC Fight Night Manila: Edgar vs. Faber takes place on May 16th, at the Mall of Asia Arena and the card is headlined by a Featherweight dream match featuring former UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar going up against former WEC Featherweight Champion Urijah Faber. Tickets can be purchased in all SM Tickets Booths located in SM Cinema branches nationwide or through www.smtickets.com.
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