The first thing I would like to talk about is your return to the sport. Not every athlete manages to show up after a break. How did you manage to do that?

Frankly speaking, it was hard. Now I’m not as fit as I used to be. Anyway, you can imagine that. A four-year break is a bit too long. But what counts the most is the willingness to return and hard work. When I started training again, I was terrified to face young competitors on the table. After the first competition, I realized that the difference between us was not so big, and it could be overcome. What’s more, now I want to armwrestle with young people to see in which direction I should go. In October I’m scheduled to fight against Eugen Prudnik. This match will show a lot and I want to know what I’m capable of. It’s very important, especially before the Nemiroff.

Do you have any premonitions?

No, I don’t and I don’t want to make any plans now. I’m not going to put out any challenges to myself as I’ve been preparing for the Nemiroff for seven months only. After all, it’s obvious that I’d like to win. It’s unlikely I’ll compete in the Cup of Ukraine. I do not want to be enthusiastic about any event, because my priority is a competition in October and the Nemiroff.

Much controversy surrounds the potential match between Cyplenkov and Larratt. You are one of the few athletes who have defeated Larratt. In the second round of the match Larratt was injured. Was Devon fully committed to this match?

I do not know, I didn’t notice anything particular. I think that if Devon had been injured he would not have fought with me. Larratt is a very good professional. I think it was me who brought disappointment in the first round, but then I changed my style of fighting.

From your experience: what will be the outcome of the match Cyplenkov vs. Larratt?

Denis has a tremendous strength, whereas Larratt has an excellent technique and endurance. This is an athlete who can beat his opponent and laugh at him, like it was the case with his match with Andrey Pushkar. Andrey had a really hard time.
As for the match between Larratt and Cyplenkov - time will tell. If Devon imposes his style of fighting on Denis, Cyplenkov may have a hard time. One thing is certain - it will be a spectacular match.

Anastazja Kisilieva