SB Nation Exclusive Interview With UFC's Roy 'Big Country' Nelson
by David St. Martin on Aug 3, 2010 3:42 PM EDT
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With the pressure of No.1 contendership weighing on his shoulders, Roy 'Big Country' Nelson will step into the cage on Saturday night to confront what is arguably the biggest test of his career in Junior dos Santos. Seemingly breezing through the tenth season of 'The Ultimate Fighter,' Nelson made more than just a name for himself with the casual fan. Between his victory over Kimbo Slice and requesting Burger King (double whopper, no pickle) as a post-fight victory snack, Roy has endeared himself to the masses with his 'every man' style and likability. Since appearing on TUF, 'Big Country' has laid waste to to his recent opponents with back to back first round stoppages over Brendan Schaub and Stefan Struve, it will be interesting to see if Nelson chooses to stand with one of the heavyweight division's most gifted strikers. 'Big Country' tells us about his upcoming bout with Junior dos Santos, training at home, how his physique plays a role in fighting, and maybe even a little about his infamous hair style.
Enjoying arguably the most dominant side control in the game, Nelson gives some insight into what makes his so successful. "Side control is just another position that you have to work on, just like your boxing and wrestling. The difference is that I use it to force you to move into a position that is in my favor."
Asked about inflicting unnecessary damage and conserving energy during a fight, we asked Roy if a burnout a la Shane Carwin vs. Brock Lesnar was a concern of his. "No, I like to hit people but when there isn't a need to hurt somebody you don't need to. I never really worry about burnout if you are in shape and if you are in control."
On whether or not his physique plays a role in his ability to take down his opponents. "I really don't know, I just figured you either know how to do a takedown or you don't."
On why he refuses to align with a premier camp, Nelson explains that he prefers the amenities of home. "There's nothing wrong with a big camp, I just like to be pushed by people who have my best interest" He told SB Nation. "I have Scott Junk from TUF 10, Jose Salgado, RJ Richter, and few other notable names."
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nobody is giving big roy enough of a chance here
Been a fan since ifl days as well. Everyone keeps saying he lost arlovski and monson before TUF (true, but monson was a gift decision that even monson admits he should have lost. And arlovski was abeast before fedor seemingly crushed his soul). If jds gets put into side control….
Even a broken clock is right two times a day.
by Chris Toffer on Aug 4, 2010 1:48 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
