China's tallest man hopeful

Though not yet officially recognised, 27-year-old Zhao Liang measures 10 cm taller than the current Guinness Record holder for world's tallest person.

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Twenty-seven-year old Chinese man Zhao Liang made an unexpected discovery about himself while being treated for foot injury.

When his doctors measured him, his enormous frame stood a full 10 cm taller than the current Guinness Record holder for the world's tallest person.

But being different has not always been an advantage for Zhao.

SOUNDBITE: 27-Year-Old Zhao Liang, saying (Mandarin with English translation):

"It's very difficult to find a car that suits me. When other people need one bed in a hotel, I always need to put two together. My shoes are specially made, because I cannot find ones in my size. It is not that hard to get tailored clothes, but it is very difficult to get shoes."

The current official Guinness title-holder, 57-year-old Chinese citizen Bao Xishun, stands at 2.36 meters (7.74 ft.) tall.

Though currently unable to stand as his foot is in plaster, Zhao measures 2.46 meters (8.1 ft) in height.

However, Zhao's mother Wang Keyun didn't care if her son was the tallest man in the world. She has bigger worries.

SOUNDBITE: Mother Wang Keyun, saying (Mandarin with English translation):

"I am a bit concerned. He is taller than all other people, so I am worried that he may not be able to find a wife."

Zhao's grandfather was an impressive two metres (6.5 ft) in height, but Zhao's parents and two siblings are average height.

Weighing 155 kg (341.7 lbs.), Zhao eats three times more than an average person.

He said he has gotten used to his height, and doesn't suffer from any health complications on account of it.

Kitty Bu reporting for Reuters in Beijing.