When Zuffa decided not to pick up former IFL heavyweight champion Roy Nelson, most of us thought it was simply due to Nelson not being a terribly attractive asset… from a business perspective that is, not literally. Now, however, word is emerging that Nelson’s portly physique is in fact what steered him away from the Octagon, and toward the oversized ring of Affliction.

“Joe Silva was telling me to lose some weight and gain some muscle. He said I need the UFC look,” Nelson recently told TAGG Radio.

“Nelson went on to say it was the Barnett type treatment and that he didnt want to do steroids or anything stupid [and] said thats just his genetics.”

While the UFC may be acting a bit harsh by utilizing the “No Fatties” policy, I find it difficult to argue with the notion that “Big Country” couldn’t shed a few dozen pounds fairly easily if he had such a desire. I mean, have you looked at the picture? On the other hand, Roy Nelson remains a heavyweight in a world where competitors in such a weight class are scarce to say the least.

Should the UFC really be so picky when it comes to beer bellies even if the talent is there? That’s a tough call. Indeed, the business of MMA is about obtaining and building a solid talent roster, but the business of the UFC is very much about marketability, and I guess the powers that be just don’t see Nelson being a very strong draw with his whole third trimester look.

Nelson is slated to face off against UFC veteran Paul Buentello at Affliction: Day Of Reckoning on October 11th.

Source: www.mmafrenzy.com