Ivan, when did you receive your invitation to participate in the TOP 16 project?

I think I’ve heard about it for the first time back at A1 from Igor Mazurenko. But it was all very vague at that time, Igor just told me that maybe I’ll have a start there. I was reassured of it by the recent invitation.

What was your reaction?

I received that invitation early in the morning, I haven’t properly woken up yet. So my reaction was a little slow, but of course I was very happy. The project seems very promising.

Why did you agree to be a part of it? What are your goals?

You don’t say no to a chance like this. For now I don’t have any goals, besides ascending to a new level.

TOP 16 is going to see the stars of the world armwrestling. A lot has been invested in this project. The costs are astronomical, compared to any previous tournaments. What does this mean for the world of armwrestling and its promotion all over the world?

It’s hard to say anything at this moment, we don’t have enough information yet. Of course, I hope that it’s going to take armwrestling to a new level. I feared that it’s not going to happen in my lifetime, but now I see a chance. TOP 16 is a great leap forward.

Do you have any doubts about entering the TOP 16?

The top guys aside, I can fight anyone else. But you can safely assume, that for this kind of money the contestants will do anything to be at their best. A great rivalry shall begin…

Artur Grigorian