CHICAGO – Alistair Overeem says his highlight-reel loss to Francis Ngannou in his most recent bout has had no ill effects on his confidence going into UFC 225.

Overeem (43-16 MMA, 8-5 UFC) returns to octagon for the first time since falling to Ngannou by knockout in December when he meets Curtis Blaydes (9-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC) on Saturday. The heavyweight matchup serves as the featured bout on the FS1-televised prelims prior to the pay-per-view main card at United Center in Chicago.

Through his long and decorated combat sports career, Overeem has suffered losses in many different fashions. He’s never allowed it to deter him, though, and despite the fight with Ngannou being named the 2017 “Knockout of the Year” by several outlets, Overeem said this time is no different.

“It’s a sport,” Overeem told MMAjunkie at a UFC 225 media day. “When you lose, don’t complain. Just go back to the gym and hit it harder. It doesn’t hurt me one little single bit. I love what I’m doing and, what can I say? That’s it.”

Overeem, No. 3 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMAjunkie MMA heavyweight rankings, is not looking to rebound with an easy fight, either. He takes on No. 9-ranked Blaydes, who is riding a five-fight unbeaten streak in the UFC.

Overeem, 38, who is 11 years the elder of his opponent Blaydes, 27, said he enjoys the challenge of fighting a younger foe and is focused on the task at hand.

“Everybody in the top 10, everybody in the UFC motivates me,” Overeem said. “There’s always a lot at stake. Curtis is very fit, he’s going to come with his plan. Personally I love deciphering people and just studying what they’re doing. … I’m confident, I’m ready and let’s get it on.”

If Overeem had beaten Ngannou back in December, it would have likely resulted in a title shot. He stumbled in his first encounter with champ Stipe Miocic (19-2 MMA, 11-2 UFC) at UFC 203 in September 2016, but Overeem said he’s still determined to get the only belt that’s eluded him in his combat sports tenure.

“I’m ranked No. 2 in the heavyweights (in the UFC’s official rankings),” Overeem said. “I’m figuring with a couple wins, maybe that title. Couple of wins first.”

For more on UFC 225, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.