MMA Fix introduces a new interview format on our site featuring 10 questions with fighters who answer in their own written words. Our first installment is with UFC Heavyweight Roy Nelson.
1. Junior Dos Santos took the win in your UFC 117 bout, but you gained several new fans and Dana White’s newfound respect. How much do fans’ respect and/or Dana’s respect ease the blow of that loss?
RN: Any time you pick up any new fans in our business it [is] a good thing this is why as a fighter we put on the show.
2. You took some hard blows and you seem to have a solid chin. How much are you physically hurting a few weeks later?
RN: From the fight being punched I feel good, except I just had knee surgery so that hurts.
3. Is Dos Santos the toughest opponent you have faced in your career?
RN: Dos Santos is the guy who I will have to beat to get the belt, he should be wearing it soon if Brock or Cain stand with him.
4. Having reviewed the fight, did you see an opportunity where you could have won either by knockout, submission, or even swayed the decision?
RN: After watching the fight I feel good for the next time we fight.
5. Your performance in UFC 117 was impressive to many spectators and to the president of the UFC, himself. Where do you think you stand now? Are you looking to fight the winner of Mir/Noguiera? Who do you think you are likely to face next? (*Note: Question asked before Noguira pulled out of UFC 119 due to knee surgery)
RN: I think I am now number two in the UFC rankings so who ever they give me, maybe Noguiera since he [is] having surgery too.
6. Joe Rogan commented in your fight that he thought your “fat” may have served as an extra layer of protection. Do you agree with this assessment?
RN: I don’t know I don’t know what he said, but I really don’t care unless he is my training partner or coach.
7. Do you think that now is a time to consider shaving off the extra “layer of protection”?
RN: No Comment
8. You live in Las Vegas, home to some of the most renowned MMA gyms, including Xtreme Couture and TapOut, yet we’ve seen you training primarily at Gold’s Gym and in your home gym, referred to as the “Country Club”. Should we expect to see you training at a top known MMA facility or will you continue doing your own thing?
RN: No Comment
9. What great food have you indulged in since your fight?
RN: No Comment
10. What question are you most tired of being asked and what question do wish someone would ask you, and while you’re asking yourself that, go ahead and answer it, as well.
RN: EVERY ONE KNOWS THE ANSWER WHO IS [A] FAN SO NO COMMENT