In Nemiroff World Cup 2013 Taras Ivakin placed 14^th in his category. That’s very low for a contestant of his caliber. It’s worth remembering though, that he had a four year break.

Taras, what were your main obstacles when you fought? What was missing?

There was only one obstacle – I’m burnt out. I couldn’t put my mind into fighting mode. Those 4 years took away my hunger to compete. I tried fighting, like I did in training, but it was a wrong move and I had to pay the price.

What are your plans for the future? Are you still sure you want a comeback?

I’m going to go everywhere my body and my finances allow me! Europe and the world does not interest me – now I only fight professional. I’m sure I’ll come back, I just need time. It’s possible to get back in shape, just very difficult. But to compete with current champions I need to be in shape twice as good as present. I’m sure that’s doable.

What’s your opinion on this year’s Nemiroff’s organization and execution?

It was good, but nothing special… The World Cup is on a high level I’ve known for years. I was more surprised with the bouts than with the tournament itself.

Which fights do you remember as a spectator, rather than a contestant?

Cyplenkov – Chaffe and Prudnik – Zoloyev – those were the best. Nobody expected the outcomes of those fights. If it wasn’t for them, Nemiroff wouldn’t be as spectacular as it was this year. It would be great to see the same guys on the other side of the table, not in tournament, but in armfights.

In light of recent events, what are the fights that you look forward to?

It’s hard to say, I’m going to be preparing myself. I hope to meet Eugene Prudnik soon.

What do you think of the foul recording system on Nemiroff?

I had a taste of this system in 2005 – 2007. It wasn’t very different this year. There will always be quarrels and dissatisfaction with referee verdicts. Sometimes the recording helps, but not always.

Artur Grigorian