How do you feel after competition?

I feel good. I’m sure I could have ended up 1 or 2 places higher in open class if I were cleverer in one or two fights. And if I had less tough matches in my weight class…

American sportsmen brought a fresh air in Nemiroff, didn’t them?

Yes, they did. I never met Dave before Nemiroff and what a great guy he is! He is a role model just like Denis, Devon and Pushkar is. Mr. Tim was on a very high level this year. USA had a great team.

Oleg Zhokh didn’t fight in Open category on left hand. Do you think he could change a lot?

Definitely, he could have easily be 3-4 in open class.

What do you think about sport psychologist? Should sportsmen use psychologist, or they have to decide their problems themselves?

I don’t think our sport is big enough to worry about any psychology at this moment.

Someday, when there is more money involved, then yes...

Do you use “psycho-attacs”?

I don’t really do. Trying to stay focused on a fight and positive. All time is for job and no time for anything else.

Is it hard to fight alone, if nobody else from your country fights?

It is very hard to train if you have no opponents. But you learn to adapt. If they are too weak I use equipment to make them stronger. Like elastics etc...

How do you adjust to matches and recover after them?

Well, for me it is very difficult to compete in professional events because a lot of my opponents use banned supplements. So for me to compete on their level is very hard as I am a natural competitor. After competitions I rest two weeks, and no more rehab for me, except if I have serious injury.

Are you superstitious?

I bet I am. :)

Anastasia Kisilyova