
The bout will take place during the company's scheduled Dec. 4 event in St. Louis.
Silva was the only man to capture the EliteXC heavyweight championship before the promotion folded, though he tested positive for steroids after the bout, a misstep that led to a one-year suspension from the California state athletic commission.
Silva fought overseas during that ban, and returned to US promotions last November, when he fought Fabricio Werdum to a unanimous decision loss. Silva (14-2) rebounded with a decision victory over Andrei Arlovski, but hasn't fought since May.
The 34-year-old Overeem has several notable wins in his career, defeating stars including Randy Couture and Renato "Babalu" Sobral, but he has essentially been a journeyman for most of his MMA lifespan, with a record of 28-25.
Overeem is just 4-6 over his last 10 fights but has won two straight. Known for an exciting style, Overeem's been to a decision just twice in his 53 pro fights. The fight with Silva will mark his Strikeforce debut.
The Dec. 4 card, which takes place from the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, features a main event of Dan Henderson vs. Sobral in a rematch a decade in the making.
In addition, NFL great Herschel Walker is scheduled to make his second career start against an opponent yet to be determined.