Devon Larratt has identified a potential problem heading into his match against Ibragim Sagov: the Russian’s press and his ability to attack from inside.
During a discussion about the upcoming match, Devon acknowledged that some of his opponents have found success against him by bringing him into a hook or getting him away from his shoulder. Dave Chaffee and Rino Masic are examples of opponents who have exploited that approach.
Devon understands the pattern. However, he also made it clear that armwrestling inside is not necessarily where he wants to take the fight.
“But that’s not what I like to do,” Devon explained.
That raises an important question ahead of the match: How will Devon deal with Sagov’s press?
Devon Larratt Could Be Forced Into a Different Kind of Match
Devon’s strength has always been his ability to adapt and attack opponents from different positions. However, Sagov presents a challenge that could force him to reconsider his preferred approach.
Sagov’s press gives him a dangerous way to finish opponents, particularly when he can bring his shoulder forward and commit his bodyweight to the movement. If Devon cannot control Sagov’s hand and wrist, he could find himself defending against a powerful inside attack.
Devon’s comments suggest that he understands the danger. He knows that opponents who can get him into uncomfortable positions have found ways to challenge him.
The question is whether he can prevent Sagov from establishing those positions in the first place.
Devon also admitted that he might be able to outlast Sagov, although he made the observation somewhat reluctantly. That could become an important factor if neither athlete can secure an early advantage.
If the match develops into a prolonged battle, Devon’s endurance and ability to make adjustments could become increasingly important.
Devon Finds Sagov’s EVW Strap Record Strange
One statistic that caught Devon’s attention was Sagov’s record in the straps at East vs West.
“He’s never been in the straps in EVW, which is so weird to me,” Devon remarked.
The observation is particularly interesting because the straps can significantly change the dynamics of an armwrestling match. They reduce the importance of maintaining a completely secure grip on the opponent’s hand and can allow athletes to apply pressure differently.
For Devon, who has extensive experience in the straps, Sagov’s lack of EVW strap experience is an unusual detail heading into their encounter.
However, it does not automatically mean Sagov will struggle there. His performance in that position remains an unknown, and Devon will have to discover how the Russian responds if the match reaches the straps.
The setup itself could become another battleground. Devon expects tensions to rise during the setup, suggesting that getting into a favourable position before the referee’s go command may be just as important as the actual pulling.
Sagov Has Prepared for Devon Mentally and Physically
Sagov’s decision to call out Devon also tells us something about his preparation.
Taking on an athlete with Devon’s experience and reputation requires considerable confidence. Sagov appears willing to test himself against one of the sport’s most established competitors, and his comments suggest that he has been thinking about the timing of this opportunity.
When asked why he called out Devon, Sagov explained that he was concerned about Devon’s physical capabilities declining as he continued to age. He wanted to face Devon while the Canadian was still performing at the highest level.
That explanation adds another dimension to the matchup.
Sagov is not simply looking for a high-profile opponent. He believes the timing matters, and he wants to test himself against Devon before further physical decline potentially changes the nature of the challenge.
His callout suggests that he has considered both the physical and mental demands of the match.
Devon Larratt Wants to Make the 115 kg Division His Home
Devon also discussed his plans for the future, indicating that he intends to remain in the division.
He wants to make the 115 kg category his home, partly because of his health.
That decision could have significant implications for the division. Devon remains one of the sport’s most recognisable competitors, and his continued presence at 115 kg would give the other athletes a major name to chase.
It also makes the Sagov match particularly important. If Devon intends to establish himself in the division for the foreseeable future, he will need to prove that he can compete against its strongest challengers.
