VIDEO: Alistair Overeem’s First Interview Since Suspension: “I Am A Clean Fighter”

On April 24, UFC heavyweight Alistair Overeem was suspended nine-months by the Nevada State Athletic Commission dating back to March 27, the date he was administered a random drug test by the NSAC that came back showing an elevated testosterone-to-epitestosterone ratio.

Since the suspension was ruled, the 32-year-old has chosen to stay quite and avoid interviews with the media – until now. On the June 26 edition of FUEL TV’s UFC Tonight weekly news program, the Dutch heavyweight participated in his first interview in over two-months and had a lot to say.

“What I want to show the world is that I am a clean fighter, I’ll do these tests on my own. One test doesn’t say anything. If I do these tests every 3-4 weeks, then you prove to everyone that you are clean, the medical staff is observing you taking the test, so there’s no foul play involved.

What I’m hoping to achieve is that I can prove to the world that I am a clean fighter. I’m doing it for myself as well as for the fans. For me, myself, my fans, for the commission, I am a clean fighter.”

It is certainly a nice gesture for Overeem to take monthly self-imposed drug tests, but is it enough to build back the credit he lost with the fans? He is adamant about the fact he is a clean fighter, however time is the only thing that can truly clear his name.

Overeem also stated in the interview that he would like to challenge for the UFC heavyweight championship immediately upon his return, but is aware that the decision is not is and one that is entirely up to the UFC brass. Watch the complete interview from UFC Tonight below.

Video courtesy of fueltv