You are one of the most recognizable wrestlers in the world. You’ve been coming here for years, and still you remain at the highest level. What keeps you going?

It’s passion, above all else.

Each time a new fighter arrives, it seems your position might be threatened. But you always come out on top.

I’ve been fighting for 25 years, that’s a lot of time. I started training armwrestling when I was six. I keep on watching the newcomers fight, and thinking how to beat them.

Your fights are very spectacular, the seems to go in slow motion. Have you ever finished quick?

Yes, I can finish a fight quick. It all depends on who I’m fighting.

Is there any fighter that you are watching with special interest?

Nemiroff is the best event of the world. Watching it you realize that it’s not only about strength, but also about your skill at the table. There are not many people in the world who truly realize what it takes.

Then what does it take for you, what is your method?

Because of the wrong supplementation regime and wrong training methods I have some serious joints problems. I don’t have a full range of motion in my elbows and arms. That’s why I had to change my technique, the way I fight. In armwrestling the most important thing is the right angle, arm length and the clarity as to what you want to do with your opponent. That’s what I put most emphasis on.

IM