Strikeforce: Arlovski vs. Rogers winner not guaranteed a shot at champ Overeem

Originally posted on MMAjunkie.com

Much of the build-up surrounding the "Strikeforce: Lawler vs. Shields" heavyweight co-feature between Andrei Arlovski and Brett Rogers has focused on the possible title shot implications.

But on a recent media call promoting the June 6 event at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Strikeforce Director of Communications Mike Afromowitz said a win for either fighter didn't guarantee an appointment with title holder Alistair Overeem.

"There are a lot moving parts there depending on the winner," Afromowitz said. "It's definitely a possibility, but there are a lot of moving parts."

While Arlovski, a former UFC champion, is certainly favored in the contest, his existing contract status with Affliction may prove to be a significant hurdle.

"We can't really go into dialogue about [Arlovski's contract status] right now," Afromowitz said. "Andrei is a great fighter, and we're looking forward to having him fight on this card – and hopefully we'll see about the future."

When pressed on the circumstances that brought Arlovski to Strikeforce for the June 6 event, Afromowitz declined to elaborate.

"I'd say it was more of a mutual opportunity," Afromowitz said. "I'll leave it at that. The opportunity came about and it just worked out for both [Strikeforce and Affliction]."

Rogers is firmly under contract for Strikeforce, and his shot at the title would seem to be a bit more secure should things play out in "The Grim's" favor on June 6. But Afromowitz would not guarantee that possibility.

"We'd have to revisit where Andrei is at if he wins," Afromowitz said. "If Brett wins and he's healthy, it’s definitely a possibility. Right now, we're focused on this fight and we'll see what happens. But either fighter skill-wise could easily challenger Alistair for the title.

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