Struve on Reem: It’s simple, I’m better

UFC heavyweight Stefan Struve got his jaw broken last fight by Mark Hunt, in March of 2013. Then he was diagnosed with a leaking heart valve. And when he came back at UFC 175, he had a fainting spell and panic attack.

But now he’s really back.

Struve spoke with Thomas Gerbasi for UFC.com, ahead of his fight Saturday with Alistair Overeem at UFC on FOX 13.

“We’ve really done everything to make sure I’m in the best condition physically and mentally to perform and I really believe I’m going to put on one of my best fights I’ve ever fought for the UFC,” said Struve.

I got another shot and I didn’t care who it was. Look at my last two opponents; Miocic is fighting for a title shot and Hunt just got his shot. In my opinion, I should have won both of those fights. The Hunt fight didn’t go my way because physically there was something very wrong with me at that point, so this is where I should be. Alistair has gone through some adversity in his career. He lost three of his last four fights by knockout, but obviously he’s a big name, and he’s a very good opponent, but I’m better. It’s simple as that. I’m better, I’ve got more potential and I did everything I could possibly do to prepare myself for this fight, so I know if I fight my fight, I’m gonna win.

I’m the youngest ranked heavyweight out there and the only ranked heavyweight in his 20s, he said. The rest are getting old. (Laughs) I’m right there to take over and this is another step to where I want to be.

So what do you think UG? Who gets their hand raised Saturday night?