How was your fight with Harold?

When we were approaching the table, I saw huge determination in Harold’s eyes, he came to win. It was obvious from round one, when we were testing each other. You could easily see he was prepared, he analyzed my technique, which he proved with the first start. Not only did he start quickly, but also he stopped me from doing my technique, that’s why he came up on top that round. During the break I analyzed what I could change. I made a few scenarios for this fight beforehand, and this was one of them. That’s why I could catch Harold’s attacks in next round.

I won round two, but by fouls only. I’m not too happy about it, but that’s how it is in sports. In round three Harold fouled, but at second go he was faster and pinned me. It was 2:1 for him.

In round four, which I also won by fouls, unfortunately, I felt that Harold was weakened. Even though he managed to extend my wrist at one point, I could hold him. So this round went to me, we had a draw.

I won another round by fouls, I don’t really remember much about it.

In the last round I finally won by pinning the opponent properly.

I’m a little disappointed not to have won all rounds by pinning. Harold is a great opponent, technique and speed-wise. Oh well, things happen.

Could your winning by fouls be a proof that your starting position was aimed at making him foul?

Harold seems to me to be familiar with another school of armwrestling. This was a clash of equally string opponents. Seeing as Harold’s won national championships in both arms, whis might mean he had no really strong opponents and no real chances to wrestle. Maybe that’s why the fouls and the loss. This should be properly analyzed. Harold’s been in this game for 17 years, I only for five. He seems to read the ref’s lips. Big up to him, respect! Sometimes though he does move too quick, and things happen. But as I said, this fight needs analyzing, move – by – move.

Your first meeting with Harold before the fight, how was it?

When we met in Vegas, we greeted each other normally. We fought at the AC’s and I think he’s a nice, cool guy. It was a warm meeting. The conference was friendly, too. As for just before the fight, we just said hello and spoke no more until we met at the table. The closer to the fight, the more tension. Rivalry was in the air.

And if you were to say if there were any changes in you after the fight?

It was a great experience, for sure, a way to build up my self-esteem. It’s hard to say what I gained as a fighter, except a chance to fight in this formula. It’s mostly a great experience for me.

Plans for future?

Constant development. I have my training plan from Igor, I see great progress after just a month of work on my stamina I could hold out for 6 rounds and my arm wasn’t even pumped. Usually, after one round I couldn’t close my fingers because they were so pumped with blood. Yet here I was, good as new. I know I’m going in the right direction. I want to keep getting better and better.

Marcin Koszałka