Alistair Overeem and DREAM 15: No Arlovski, no title, no 'Demolition Man'

Props: MMA Fighting

Quoteworthy:

"I knew Dream wanted me on the show, but I didn't want to go back in training preparation. Then, they offered me a fight against Andrei Arlovski for the Dream heavyweight title. As I have said on occasions, fighting for a belt means something more, and I wanted that Dream title so much that so as a result, I agreed to lay off my media and holiday plans, and went back to training. During my training I found out that Andrei Arlovski was not going to be my opponent, and they changed opponents numerous times. I've heard names like Tim Sylvia and Minowa. At one point, I received notice that they had found a opponent but that the Dream heavyweight title was not on the line anymore. With all the changes and the title fight no longer a possibility, I simply had to turn down the opportunity. I want to make it very clear that I never verbally agreed to fight (Ricco Rodriguez) and I never signed a contract with Dream to fight him. I feel very sorry for (the Rodriguez camp) if they still think the fight is on, and I apologize to my fans that have bought a ticket to see me compete. I hope this statement has shed some light on the unfortunate situation."

Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion Alistair Overeem sheds some light on his recent withdrawal from the DREAM 15 event on July 10 following the Japanese fight promotion's failure to agree to the Dutchman's terms. "Demolition Man" was of the understanding that he would face Andrei Arlovski for the DREAM heavyweight title but when that bout failed to materialize, so did Overeem's interest in participating on the upcoming fight card. Is this another example of DREAM mis-managing its fighters? Or does Overeem need to lower his demands? What's your take?