He has been armwrestling profesionally since 1998, he's an eight times American champion. On 12^th of July he will face Janek Żółciński, whom he's already fought this year at the Arnold Classic. How does he recall that encounter?

In our last fight we had a draw, 1-1 – says Owens. - I though I would win the first bout, but I fouled with my elbow, and after restarting Janek went all out and I fouled again. The next day I met janek at the finals, I was more focused and more in control. I have great respect for Janek, he hasn't fought in many years. This will be fun!

At the Vendetta in Vegas, they will fight in the superheavyweight category, 95 + kg. How is Owens preparing?

I train like I did in 2007 – says “the Viper”. - I work weights 4 times a week and spar once a week. My diet is mostly proteins and aminoacids. I react well to training, it's a gift from God.

I train all aspects, power, strength and stamina, and also my arm power, mostly my holds. I have a crew of armwrestlers who push me non stop in my preparations.

Trainings are intense, Owens does a lot of short movements with weights.

I focus on striking at the signal – says Harold. - I do a week of intense, short moves wight small weights, followed by a week of slow, controlled moves with large weights. I also use expanders, to work my fast reaction muscle fibers.

What does he expect from Vendetta in Vegas?

For me Vendetta is a way to return to armwrestling – says Owens. - I can't wait to return to top form. I think it will be a challenge, it will force me to focus. I'm also very curious if I'll be up to the task. Janek is a strong fighter, I have to use my all against him. I'm working hard on my stamina and I whink this will be to my advantage, if Janek doesn's pin me first.

The armfight #43 will take place on 12^th July, Sunday, 15 – 18, at the Vinyl Club of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Iza Małkowska