Strikeforce releases heavyweight champ Alistair Overeem

[Pythagoras]

Strikeforce heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem's run with the organization apparently is over.

Officials have released the heavyweight kingpin from Strikeforce's roster, according to a report from HDNet's "Inside MMA" show.

MMAjunkie.com (UFC blog for UFC news, UFC rumors, fighter interviews and event previews/recaps | MMAjunkie.com) confirmed the release with a source close to the fighter, though details weren't available. Officials reportedly exercised their right to eliminate the one remaining fight on his contract.

As MMAjunkie.com reported earlier this week, Overeem (35-11 MMA, 3-0 SF) recently withdrew from the organization's eight-man heavyweight grand prix. Overeem, who defeated Fabricio Werdum in an opening-round matchup back in June, was slated to fight Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva in the semifinals. However, when Showtime and Strikeforce officials were forced to move the event from October to a Sept. 10 show scheduled for Cincinnati, Overeem said he wouldn't be ready due to a broken toe.

According to "Inside MMA," Overeem, though, also is dealing with a broken rib and injured elbow.

Nevertheless, Overeem recently was booked for an October kickboxing event as part of a United Glory event in his native Netherlands.

Strikeforce releases heavyweight champ Alistair Overeem | MMAjunkie.com