Babaev can be considered as one of the few athletes who have not lost their reputation because of having been disqualified. As some say, one mistake cannot be a reason to write somebody off, particularly a person who has achieved a lot. Yes, what Rustam did was a stirring deed, but we cannot forget how much Babaev has achieved in the world of armwrestling. We should not write such a wonderful man off because of one mistake. Who among us is without sin, let him cast the first stone.

There’s no denying, Rustam Babaev is an armwrestling star. Unfortunately, he had to disappear from the sports arena for a while because of having been disqualified, which for an armwrestler is like a prison for a globetrotter. And the Nemiroff World Cup 2013 is just around the corner. Being disqualified, Rustam will not take part in the Cup. He will be only an observer at armwrestling competitions over the next two years. However, many people are interested in what this great puller thinks about the upcoming Professional World Cup.

Is it hard for you to endure the suspension? Have you thought of retiring from armwrestling?

I feel like anyone who’s suspended. I’m taking care of private matters, but I miss armwrestling. I keep training. When the time comes I will return to competing. I’m not thinking of retiring from armwrestling, at least not now.

Will you come to the Nemiroff to watch the matches?

Unfortunately I won’t be there as I have some previous commitments.

Who in your opinion will be a worthy opponent for Cyplenkov at the Cup?

Andrey Pushkar, as usual. There’s no one but him. Denis is also in top form and I guess nobody will be able to resist him.

Do you think John Brzenk will make it to the top again?

It will be hard for him to achieve that at his age. Besides, does he really need to do so? Brzenk has already proven to the whole world how strong he is. After all, it’s not a coincidence he’s called an armwrestling legend.

Voyevoda is just about to return to armwrestling. What do you think he will do to celebrate his comeback: a sensational win or a new achievement?

Voyevoda is a great athlete who has all the qualities worthy of a champion. I know for sure Aleks won’t be armwrestling for fun, but to win.

Which weight class will be most powerful in your opinion?

The OPEN class, although not many will be able to catch up with Cyplenkov. Despite that it’s going to be a spectacular show with many other competitors likely to surprise everyone. For sure matches of Zaloev and Zohk will be very interesting as they will have to face competitors bigger than themselves.

What is the most boring part during the Nemiroff?

The weigh-ins. It’s always been the most boring part of any competition for me. Of course, waiting for the competition to begin is tiring, but you get used to that over time.

Which victory at the Nemiroff did you enjoy the most?

It was definitely my win in the open division at the Nemiroff 2009. The victory over Andrey Pushkar gave me the greatest joy.

What’s your attitude towards cameras recording fouls. Should it be used at professional competitions?

Yes, the camera system should be used everywhere, but qualified referee who used to compete in the past should give fouls. Only those who used to compete know exactly what’s going on on the table and when a foul should be given. Competitors should not be given fouls for slight mistakes, which in fact do not affect the outcome of a match or contribute to winning.

Artur Gregorian