Tag: Combat

When you think about the greatest Thai boxers of all, one name is always on the list. Buakaw Banchamek. 

• Name: Buakaw Banchamek
• Gym: Por. Pramuk Gym(1997-2012), Banchamek Gym(2012 to Present)
• Years Active: 1997 to Present Day
• Championships: 20+ World Championships 

This is the story of one of the biggest legends in the history of Muay Thai in Buakaw Banchamek. Detailing Buakaw’s legendary 35-year fighting career and how he stays among the sport’s best fighters.

Buakaw’s Entry Into Muay Thai

Buakaw Banchamek was born Sombat Banchamek. He grew up in the province of Surin, located in northeastern Thailand.

At the age of eight, Sombat was exposed to Muay Thai and began his training. His fighting career would begin soon after Banchamek had started his training.

Throughout the next 7 years, he would fight throughout northeastern Thailand and the province of Surin. Gaining experience in numerous undocumented fights and making money for his family.

Early Muay Thai Career

At the age of 15, Sombat moved to the city of Chachoengsao in central Thailand. Joining the legendary Por. Pramuk Gym.

As a part of a big gym with connections, Damtamin Kiat-anan, as he was initially called, would get big opportunities. 

Beginning the start of his pro career fighting in Bangkok in Omnoi and Lumpinee Stadium. Collecting numerous belts and fighting in the nation’s biggest tournaments.

This included winning the Toyota Marathon 140 lbs tournament in 2002. Buakaw’s impressive performances began to earn him international recognition.

K-1 Career 

After seven years of winning numerous belts in Bangkok, Buakaw would get his first big international opportunity. He would earn a spot in the 2004 K-1 World Max Tournament.

His debut would be successful as he beat three opponents in one night to win the title. This included beating John Wayne Parr and Takayuki Kohiruimaki in the finals.

In the 2005 tournament, Banchameet would earn runner-up before winning again in 2006. Establishing himself as one of the most decorated champions in the sport.

He would have numerous big fights on the promotion for the next eight years. Including participating in every L-1 Max Tournament during that time.

Thai Fight 

In 2011, Buakaw signed a big contract to fight for the fight promotion Thai fight. He would fight 11 times for the promotion over the next two years.

Buakaw’s first year with Thai was successful as he won the promotion’s 70 kg tournament. This title win would follow, with Banchamek defending his title in 2012. Going a perfect 11-0 in Thai Fight.

Leaving Por. Pramut Gym

In 2012, news broke of friction between Buakaw and his longtime gym in Por. Pramut Gym. It was first apparent when Banchamek was absent from training for two months.

He apologized to the public on a Thai talk show and cited problems with Por Pramut Gym’s management. Claiming that problems with management had been ongoing since 2009, including abuse and unprofessional behavior.

This would lead the Thai boxing champion to open his own gym in 2012 called Banchamek Gym. A world-class facility where Buakaw has made his home base for the last eleven years.

Buakaw’s Career During The 2010s & Retirement 

After setting up in his home gym, Buakaw would venture out on his own. Fighting in various promotions around the world from 2012 to 2019.

Everywhere from returning for his last run in K-1, fighting in Thailand again, and also bouts in China. At his last K-1 appearance, Banchameet would earn his second runner-up award in the Max tournament.

Then from 2017 to 2019, Buakaw would fight in Kunlan and various supershows around Thailand. After this run, he would go on a three-year hiatus from competing, where many thought the legend was retired.

Buakaw’s Comeback 

Buakaw would end his three-year hiatus in 2022 by making his return at World Fight Tournament in Cambodia. Defeating Dmitry Varats by unanimous decision.

He would also participate in various exhibition matches that were held at Rajadamnern Stadium. His real match would be against Japanese kickboxing veteran Yoshiro Sato.

A match that was scheduled to happen in 2008 in the K-1 tournament but never happened. When they finally met, Buakaw would win with a first-round KO.

His last kickboxing match took place on May 6, 2023 on the Rizin 42 card in Tokyo, Japan. Fighting to a draw against Japanese fighter Rukiya Anpo.

Putting his current record at 240 wins/24 losses/14 draws.

Buakaw Enters Bare Knuckle Boxing 

If making a comeback into Muay Thai and kickboxing wasn’t enough, he would also transition to another sport. Signing a contract to fight with the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.

At 40 years old, Banchamek would make his BKFC debut on the BKFC: Thailand 3 event as the headliner. Defeating Erkan Varol by first-round knockout.

In 2023, it was announced that Buakaw would face Muay Thai legend Saenchai in a bare-knuckle Muay Thai match. But it was postponed due to legal issues over the use of the word Muay Thai in the event name.

Buakaw’s Titles Won

In a career that spans over 30 years, Buakaw has won numerous titles in kickboxing and Muay Thai. Here’s a current count of the world titles that Banchameet has won.

K-1 Kickboxing

• 2004 K-1 Max World Champion
• 2006 K-1 Max World Champion

Omnoi Stadium

• 2001 Omnoi Stadium Featherweight Champion
• 2002 Omnoi Stadium Lightweight Champion

Professional Boxing Association of Thailand

• 2001 Thailand (PAT) Featherweight Champion

Toyota Cup

• 2002 Toyota Cup Marathon 140 lb Champion

World Muay Thai Council

• 2006-2007 WMC Muay Thai Super Welterweight World Champion
• 2009 WMC/MAD Muay Thai Super Welterweight World Champion
• 2011 WMC Muaythai Junior Middleweight World Champion
• 2014-2015 WMC Muay Thai Junior Middleweight World Champion

WBC Muay Thai

• 2014 WBC Muay Thai Diamond World Champion

Thai Fight

• 2011 70 kg Tournament Champion
• 2012 70 kg Tournament Champion

S-1 Muay Thai

• 2005 S-1 Super Welterweight World Champion

Muay Thai Association

• 2005 MTA Champion

Kunlun Fight

• 2016 Kunlun Fight Muay Thai Middleweight World Champion

Phoenix Fighting  Championship

• 2016 PFC  Junior Middleweight Champion

King of Martial Arts

• 2003 KOMA GP Lightweight Champion

Shoot Boxing

• 2010 Shoot Boxing S-Cup World Champion

Buakaw’s Style of Muay Thai 

If you were to assemble the proto-typical Muay Thai fighter, that would be Buakaw. Banchamet is the living embodiment of Muay Thai.

He’s a well-rounded fighter that’s an expert in every facet of the sport—possessing KO power in both his hands and feet and sharp defense.

Being sharp in every aspect of the sport made Buakaw one of the toughest in the sport to face. In nearly 280 fights, Banchameet has only been defeated 24 times.

Buakaw’s Legendary Training Routines 

Buakaw is one of the most prolific fighters in the history of Muay Thai. After 30+ years in the sport, he continues to stay one of the best Thai boxers in the world.

The secret to Buakaw’s longevity is his legendary training routines. Banchameet’s discipline in his training is the secret to his ability to continue fighting into his 40s.

He is one of the most conditioned fighters on the planet. Putting himself through grueling workouts literally every day. Spending hours doing bag work, pad work, and especially strength and conditioning.

Buakaw’s discipline to keep training and learning is the key to his success and longevity. This dedication is why many review him as a legend in the sport.

The Legacy of Buakaw

Buakaw Banchameet is one of the greatest fighters in Muay Thai history and a legend of the sport. For over thirty years and into his forties, Banchameet continues to beat the world’s best and shows no sign of stopping.

He is already a legend and is remarkably still adding to his impeccable fighting career.

Dave Leduc is known by many as the king of Lethwei: the Canadian martial artist who became a Lethwei champion and the face of this growing combat sport.

Here’s the story of the king of Lethwei, Dave Leduc. Detailing Leduc’s incredible journey to becoming a world-famous Lethwei champion.

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into Martial Arts

Dave Leduc’s entry into martial arts is a bit of a story. It all started with a falling out with his father when he was seventeen.

The war of words between Dave and his father got so bad that his parents asked for him to move out. At seventeen and on the streets of Quebec, Leduc would direct his anger into learning martial arts.

Dave enrolled at Kung Fu Patenaude in the small city of Gatineau in 2009. He would begin learning Sanda from the school’s owner, Sifu Patrick Marcel.

As Dave began learning the art of Sanda, he would also gain an interest in No-Gi grappling. He would begin competing in No-Gi tournaments around the province and even help organize events.

Dave Leduc’s Introduction To Lethwei 

While training in Sanda, an instructor showed Leduc old footage of Burmese Bare-knuckle. He was in awe of the old footage and wanted to compete in this style of fighting.

Unfortunately for Dave, Lethwei and Muay Thai are not legal in Quebec, so he would have to make a plan. He attempted to get a visa to Myanmar but discovered it was extremely difficult to enter the country.

Dave Leduc’s Time In Muay Thai 

Since Leduc could not travel to Myanmar, he would instead travel to Thailand with some friends. A Thai visa is rather easy to get, so Leduc could stay in the country for 30 days.

While partying in Thailand, he would take a Muay Thai fight with no experience in Muay Thai. Remarkably, Leduc would win his Muay Thai debut and have a realization.

He could train in Thailand, fight, and use it as a possible springboard to get into Lethwei. Leduc had friends that trained at Tiger Muay Thai and were able to secure a tryout for the kickboxing team.

After passing the tryout, Leduc would earn a scholarship to stay in the country and train at Tiger Muay Thai. Dave would be on the team training alongside UFC vets Alex Volanovski, Dan Hooker, and Peter Yan. 

Leduc began competing in Thai boxing every month and knocked out his opponents. Unfortunately, Dave was finishing opponents in the first round, which made him unpopular with promoters, because spectators weren’t able to gamble.

These promoters would begin holding Leduc back, which would hurt him financially as a foreigner in Thailand.

Muay Thai Prison Fights

Leduc found his way onto the controversial prison fights show in Thailand. Muay Thai events that were put on by the Thai Department of Corrections. 

In these events, convicted criminals, who were Thai boxers, get to fight free opponents. If the prisoners win, they are able to reduce their sentences or even go free.

Dave volunteered as one of the free opponents against the prisoners at the last ever event in 2014. The matches were held at a maximum security prison outside of Bangkok.

Leduc would fight former Lupini Stadium fighter Thahan Chor, imprisoned for drug trafficking.

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into Lethwei

After using all of the money in Thailand, Dave was forced to go back to Canada. He would begin saving money again to make another trip to Thailand.

While in Canada, Leduc would contact a Muay Thai promoter to set up fights for him. This promoter told him that he had begun setting up Lethwei bouts.

Leduc realized this was his chance at his dream, and he jumped at the opportunity. 

Dave Leduc’s Lethwei Debut

Dave’s first Lethwei bout was a match with a staggering experience difference. He would fight the world champion Too Too, who was 36-0.

The promoter actually lied to the Myanmar organizer and said Leduc had 40 Muay Thai fights. Not the 10 professional Muay Thai bouts that he really had.

Leduc was met by tens of thousands of Burmese spectators throwing garbage at him. Of course, because he was the foreigner fighting the nation here.

But Leduc had looked up Lethwei fighters’ gestures before a fight. He began making a gesture where he would throw elbows into his cupped hand. The crowd would change emotions and begin respecting him.

Dave knew that he was sent in to lose this match, but he would stun the crowd with a magnificent performance. Drawing with Too Too and winning the hearts of the Myanmar people.

Dave Leduc Fights For The Openweight Title

Due to his impressive performance against Too Too, Leduc would earn another title shot. Competing for the open weight title against champion Tun Tun Min.

The two would fight in another sold-out crowd at the Thein Pyu Stadium. Both fighters would have a back-and-forth battle that would end in another draw.

Tun Tun would offer an immediate rematch to Leduc that took place later in 2016. Leduc would get the better of Tun Tun and hurt him in the third round. 

Forcing him to retire and giving the win to Leduc. The crowd roared in approval as Dave was awarded the golden belt.

Dave Leduc Becomes A Superstar

After becoming the World Openweight Lethwei Champion, Dave Leduc would become a superstar in Myanmar. He received a lot of fame and recognition from his adoring fans.

The head of Myanmar even paid for his wedding, which was aired live on public tv and watched by millions. Dave Leduc had become the King of Lethwei.

Leduc Becomes The King Of Lethwei

Over the next few years, Leduc would take on all comers. Defending his championship for the next three years against all comers.

Fighting all of the best Lethwei fighters in the world from Myanmar to Tokyo. One of the most anticipated matches was against Cyrus Washington, who had fought in Lethwei before Leduc. Leduc would beat Washington in two different bouts.

Probably the most globally viewed Lethwei match in Leduc’s career was against UFC vet Seth Baczynski. This would be Seth’s entry into Lethwei, and the King of Lethwei gave him a punishing lesson. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgwDstFlzE&t=3s

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into MMA

Before Leduc could get into Lethwei, he would take MMA bouts while in Canada. 2013 he was a 3-0 amateur before his first trip to Thailand. This includes a win over a protege of GSP.

In 2014, he would take pro-MMA fights for money to return to Thailand but had not been training in grappling. Leduc had also not cut weight before, which took a toll on his body.

He would lose his pro debut to future UFC fighter Jonathan Meunier. Also, his second pro-MMA fight to future ONE title contender Koyomi Matsushima.

Dave Leduc’s Goes On JRE 

Where many became aware of the Lethwei champion from his appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast. He would appear on episode #81 of the JRE MMA show.

Telling his story on Rogan’s podcast would elevate Leduc’s popularity to new heights. His fights after the appearance were among the most viewed Lethwei events to date.

Dave would also reach a deal with BJJ Fanatics affiliate Dynamic Striking to produce instructional videos on Lethwei. His first video that’s available on the website is the Foundations of Lethwei.

Dave Leduc’s Lethwei Training

David has a unique way of training for a Burmese Bare-Knuckle boxing match. He has innovated his own training style to practice his specific techniques.

Specifically how to practice headbutts on the bag and mitts. Leduc has had to teach all of his pad holders how to hold pads for headbutts.

This innovation has helped many foreign beginner Lethwei fighters to learn how to throw Lethwei techniques at full speed.

Dave Leduc’s Hand Conditioning

A fighter’s hands must be conditioned since a Lethwei match is performed with bare knuckles. Dave goes through a hard hand conditioning routine to strengthen every part of his hand.

What Dave does is numerous sets of three types of pushups. 

1. Fingertip Pushups
2. Knuckle Pushups
3. Wrist Pushups

Leduc will also do his bad and pad work bare-handed in order to further condition his hands for fights.

What’s Next For Dave Leduc?

Without Dave Leduc, many of us would have known that the sport of Lethwei existed. Leduc is deservedly the face of the sport due to his work sharing Lethwei with the world. We eagerly await his return to the ring to defend his title as the World Lethwei Champion.

You can follow Leduc’s journey on his Youtube channel Leduc Lethwei.

Travis Bagent has been one of the top American arm wrestlers for the last twenty years. Known for his big and brash personality, who knows he’s good and isn’t afraid to let his opponents know it.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the career of arm wrestling champion Travis Bagent. Detailing how he got into the sport and the impact that he has made.

Travis Bagent’s Entry Into Arm Wrestling

Travis Bagent grew up around the sport of arm wrestling from an early age. His father Rusty Bagent was also a high level arm wrestler, who participated in many big competitions.

From being around the sport at an early age, Travis would begin competing in small events in his teens. Showcasing a natural talent and skill that he learned from his father.

Being a natural athlete, Bagent would also have success at team sports while in high school. But once he reached his ceiling in those sports, he became fully committed to the sport of arm wrestling.

Travis Bagent’s Career Highlights 

Travis has had a career spanning over 30 years filled with numerous championships and big wins. Here are some of the highlights of his career listed below.

Bagent in the Professional Arm Wrestling League 

The Travis Bagent vs. Devon Larratt Rivalry

One of the most bitter rivalries in Bagent’s career is his series of matches with world champion Devon Larratt. They have had a heated rivalry for many years and a lot of trash talk has gone on between them.

Their rivalry began in the late 2000s and has gone on through the 2010s until now. They have gone back and forth winning matches and taking different titles from each other.

During the start of their rivalry, Bagent would get the better of Larratt in their matches. Then as Larratt started to get into his prime in the 2010s, he would start to get the better of Bagent.

One thing is for sure and that is whenever these two go against each other is that it will be entertaining.

Travis Bagent vs. Richard Lupkes

Travis really made a name for himself in a series of matches with legendary world champion Richard Lupkes. Richard is one of the legends of arm wrestling that has been around since the sport became popularized.

In the 2000s, the young Bagent would go against the legend multiple times. One of the most memorable times that these two met at a big Ultimate ArmWrestling League Event.

For their first match, Lupkes would bull right over Bagent. Pinning him in just the first few seconds of the match.

In their second match, Lupkes looked like he would have another easy win. But just centimeters from victory, Bagent would make one of the biggest comebacks in arm wrestling history.

He would counter Lupkes’ top roll and begin taking Richard over. As Bagent began pulling Richard over, Lupkes began leaning in to try to get Travis back down.

This was when Bagent started yelling a famous line that he would become known for. “Stand up biggun, so I can bust that hand up!”

As soon as Bagent pinned Lupkes the crowd went wild. The match is considered one of the best comebacks in the history of arm wrestling.

Travis Bagent vs John Brzenk

Of course, Travis would meet the legendary John Brzenk on multiple occasions during his career. Like in most cases, Brzenk would get the better of Bagent in their series of matches.

But Bagent is one of the few arm wrestlers in history that do have wins against the legend. Including the video above, where Travis offered $10,000 to anyone that could beat him. 

It just so happened that John Brzenk was in the audience watching and wanted to take a shot at the money. At first, the two could not get a set grip, so the straps had to come in.

Strapped up, Bagent was able to take the legend over and pin him to keep his $10,000.

Travis Bagent Calling Out Denis Cyplenkov

For years, Travis has been calling out arm wrestling legend Denis Cyplenkov for a match. Ironically, the two have never met each other in competition.

At one point four years ago, Bagent would make a big offer to the Russian Mutant. He said “if $100k was put on the line, I would destroy Cyplenkov.”

Unfortunately, that match never happened and is unlikely to happen anytime in the near future. Of course, due to Cyplenkov currently dealing with health problems and no current date for a return to competing.

13 World Titles 25 National US Titles

In Bagent’s career, he has won 13 world titles and 25 US titles. All in multiple weight divisions and throughout different federations.

One of the most impressive stats of Bagent’s career is that he’s a multiple time Iron Man Arm Wrestling Challenge Champion.

This is a prestigious event where competitors don’t just compete in one weight class, but multiple in one day. Travis has been able to win this championship three times in his career. Only one of a few athletes to ever achieve this feat.

Travis Bagent’s Real Scuffles

Of course, the antics of Travis has rubbed some of his opponent’s the wrong way. There have been multiple occasions where matches have nearly turned into all out brawls.

Travis vs. Alexey Semerenko

In this bout, Travis beat Semerenko in the first match and gloated, which Alexy didn’t like. A shoving match ensued, but people stepped in to stop the fight.

When the straps were put on, the two would argue over positioning. Bagens would also continue playing mind games with Semerenko.

Then after the final match, the two would try to jerk the other to remove the straps and another shoving match ensued.

Travis vs. Michael Todd

Then one of the last incidents involving Travis was against top ranked US athlete Michael Todd. In their match, the two couldn’t get their grips set, so the straps came in.

When the match went, Bagent began getting Todd over and his antics caused Todd to lose his cool. Todd said Bagent was going under the table and began yelling profanities at him.

Nothing came from the incident and Travis is seen just laughing the whole time.

Travis Bagent’s Training Routine

It should come to know surprise that Bagent’s training routine is as intense as his personality. For his basic workout to keep his upper body strong, Travis will generally focus on six different exercises.

Then he’ll do different kinds of exercises that are strictly focused on his arm wrestling. This includes curls and cable weight exercises, where he focuses on his grip and pulling movements. 

Mimicking the same movements that he would do in an arm wrestling match to hook and pull his opponents over.

Travis Bagent’s Style 

Travis is known for his explosive strength, grip, and his patented top roll. Using his power to top roll over his opponent’s wrist to pull them over.

Although, if you’ve seen Bagent in action, he has another weapon and that is his mouth. He is one of the most entertaining trash talkers in the history of the sport.

Bagent likes to play mind games during his matches to not only entertain, but get into his opponent’s head. You can watch any highlight of Travis Bagent and see him talking some mad trash.

Travis Bagent’s Personal Life 

While Travis has made a decent living as an arm wrestler, it is actually not his main source of income. Bagent has worked in sales, as well as the oil and gas industry for many years, which has supported his career.

Then of course being an entertainer, Travis has become a Youtube creator in recent years. Posting his thoughts about the sport of arm wrestling and his opinion on athletes on his Youtube channel Travis Bagent Unfiltered.

Travis’ son is also an aspiring football athlete that wants to become a professional quarterback. He is currently working with his son at different quarterback training schools to prepare for a potential college career.

The Legacy of Travis Bagent

Travis Bagent has won over 30 major arm wrestling titles in his career. Putting him in the ranks of some of the all-time best American arm wrestlers like Cleve Dean and John Brzenk.

But even with 30 years in the sport of arm wrestling, Travis still isn’t done. He’s still an active athlete and looking to add more titles to his impressive career.

Denis Cyplenov is arguably the strongest arm wrestler that has ever lived. He was a champion in the sport of arm wrestling for decades and was also a strongman competitor. 

Here is a quick rundown of the career of arm wrestling’s strongest athlete in Denis Cyplenkov. Detailing his arm wrestling career, as well as his strongman career, and recent health problems.

The Early Life of Denis Cyplenkov

Denis Cyplenkov was born in the Ukraine, but he always identified as a Russian citizen. Throughout his career in athletics, Cyplenkov would always represent Russia. 

As a kid, Denis was alway noticeably strong with great genetics. These gifts would motivate Cyplenkov to pursue a career in strength sports.

During his teen years, he would begin his training and become inhumanly strong.

Denis Cyplenkov’s Powerlifting and Strongman Career 

Before Denis Cyplenkov got into arm wrestling, he was quite accomplished in the world of powerlifting and strongman. The first strength sport that Cyplenkov would get into was powerlifting.

He would participate in various regional meets throughout Ukraine and Russia. Even setting world records along the way.

His career highs in the main lifts include:

• Squat: 750 lbs(340 kg)
• Bench: 640 lbs(290 kg)
• Deadlift: 705 lbs(320 kg)

While Denis competed in powerlifting, he was also one of the top strongmen in all of Russia. He would get into strongman competitions right when it was introduced into Russia and became popular.

Denis would become a member of the Russian National Strength Team. As part of the Russian national team, Cyplenkov believes this was when really came into his own as a strength athlete.

Specifically doing grueling kettlebell training under master trainer Yakimenko.  While competing in strongman, would be featured on numerous televised events and win or medal in many of those events.

Denis Cyplenkov’s Lifting World Records

As a professional weight lifter, Denis Cyplenkov would hold two world records during his career. One for the strict curl and another record in the standing barbell curl.

His record for the strict curl stood at 250 lbs(113 kg), which broke the record previously held by CT Fletcher. Denis broke this record in 2015 and would hold it until 2021, when it was broken by Leroy Walker.

Cyplenkov’s other record for the standing barbell curl still stands at 375 lbs(170 kg).

Denis Cyplenkov’s Arm Wrestling Career

Denis Cyplenkov dabbled in the sport of arm wrestling at fourteen, but wouldn’t fully commit to the sport until years later. After achieving accomplishments in strongman and powerlifting, Cyplenkov would set his focus on arm wrestling.

Cyplenkov’s Early Competition

From almost the moment Cyplenkov began competing in arm wrestling, he would find success. He would begin by winning numerous regional competitions throughout Ukraine and Russia.

Using his brute force to dominate his opponents. In just a few years after beginning his career, Denis would win the Russian arm wrestling title.

When Cyplenkov made his international debut all eyes were on him. He would again use his superior strength to beat the competition. 

Denis would make it to the finals, but would find out that he couldn’t just win on strength alone. The arm wrestling legend John Brzenk would dominate the Russian Mutant in their first meeting. Sweeping the Russian in their first series to win another title.

Cyplenkov Begins Training Under Kote Razmadze

Cyplenkov had the genetic gifts of size and strength, but he was missing the technical aspects of top arm wrestlers. To learn the technical aspects of arm wrestling, he would begin training under famed arm wrestling coach Kote Razmadze.

Kote Razmadze is considered one of the best arm wrestling coaches in the history of the sport. Before Cyplenkov, he trained the legendary Alex Voyevoda and transformed Alex into one of the best ever.

Denis Cyplenkov’s Reign of Dominance

After training with Razmadze, Denis Cyplenkov would become one of the best arm wrestlers in the world. He would have an impressive reign as one of the top arm wrestlers from 2008 to 2014.

He made his first statement in 2008 against multi-time champion Andrey Pushkar. Dominating the Ukrainian 6-0 left-handed to make a statement to the arm wrestling world.

After this event, Cyplenkov competed in the 2008 and 2009 Nemiroff World Cup. One of the most prestigious tournaments in all of arm wrestling. 

Cyplenkov would dominate in the left-handed divisions and only lost to John Brzenk in a right-handed match.

This second loss to Brzenk would motivate Cyplenkov to become one of the world’s best arm wrestlers. He would then go on a tear beating some of the world’s best arm wrestlers.

During this streak Denis would beat legends like Andrey Pushkar, Richard Lupkes, and avenge his two losses to John Brzenk.

One of the most impressive parts of Cyplenkov’s career is his dominance over Devon Larratt. At a highly publicized Vendetta All Stars Arm Wrestling event.

The Russian Mutant would shock the audience as he manhandled Larratt to win 6 straight matches. After the matches, Larratt stated “in arm wrestling, you have everyone else… and then you have Denis.”

Denis Cyplenkov’s Arm Wrestling Training

Denis Cyplenkov strictly follows the system that he was taught while he trained with the Russian national team. Using a lot of kettlebells and compound movements to build and keep his strength.

He also blends the technical and specific training with what he learned under Kot Razmadze. Doing a lot of cable weight workouts to mimic the movement of an arm wrestling match. Also numerous exercises focusing on his biceps, which Denis feels is the base of his power. 

Denis Cyplenkov likes to do his specific training during his training camps for competitions. The Russian Mutant likes to have 3 month camps, where he can specifically focus on an event. 

The Russian Mutant Denis Cyplenkov’s Style and Genetics 

The first thing that you notice about DenisCyplenkov is his ridiculously large hands. He has one of the largest hands in the world that measures in at 9.5 inches (24 cm).

These massive hands and strength gave him an incredible advantage in the sport of arm wrestling. Not to mention his 24 inch biceps (62 cm) and 18 inch (48 cm) forearms.

Needless to say that Denis’ superior strength and large hands gave him an advantage in the sport of arm wrestling. His brute strength and hand strength made him a dominant competitor.

Denis is known for his brute force, but he also learned the technical aspects of arm wrestling. Blending his brute force and dominating hand/forearm control to win a decades worth of arm wrestling titles.

Denis Cyplenkov’s Health Issues

In recent years, Denis Cyplenkov has been dealing with a number of health issues. He said that his years of intense training have begun to take a toll on his body. 

Denis has ruptured blood vessels near his kidney that required stints. Due to this ailment, Cyplenkov caused him to get neuritis, which paralyzed half of his face.

He would have these operations before the 2020 pandemic, but would also catch the virus multiple times. Cyplenkov would recover from Covid, but it would further diminish his health.

These health scares have taken a toll on the Russian strongman’s body. His competition weight was around 300 lbs, but now he’s less than 270 lbs after his health scares.

Cyplenkov hopes to make a comeback in the next year, but says it all depends if his health improves. But he has stated that he only has 50% of his strength and currently can’t do his intense arm wrestling conditioning.

The Legacy of Denis Cyplenkov

Even if we never see Denis Cyplenkov compete in the sport of arm wrestling again, he’s already considered a legend. The Russian Mutant is one of the most all-time winning Russian arm wrestlers in history and an accomplished strongman.

Arm wrestling fans would love to see Cyplenkov return to form and continue winning. But if his career ends, he’ll still be considered one of the best arm wrestlers to ever live. 

The jab is arguably one of the most important techniques in boxing and combat sports. One jabbing technique that many great fighters have utilized is the flicker jab.

Here is our guide for how to utilize the flicker jab. Complete with a history of the technique and what you’ll need to know before using the flicker jab.

What is the Flicker Jab?

The flicker jab is a jabbing technique that is predominantly used in boxing. It gets the name flicker jab, because of the flicking motion of your hand during the striking.

Its purpose is quite different from a traditional boxing jab. With a traditional jab, the purpose is to throw it in a snapping motion to land a solid strike.

The flicker jab is thrown for generally two reasons.

1. A distractive set up to land power punches behind a barrage of flicking jabs.
2. Landing points on your opponent, while keeping them off balance.

What’s also different about the flicker jab is where you can throw it from. You can flick your jab from various angles. Especially from the hip like boxing legend Tommy Hearns used to do.

You probably won’t hurt your opponent with flicker jabs, but you’ll be able to keep your opponent off balance. All while giving you various options to set up your power punches.

Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns

The fighter most known for using the flicker jab was Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns. One of the greatest boxing champions of all time.

Hearns was known as “the hitman and “the motor city cobra.” He won numerous world titles and did so by using his patented flicker jab to set up knockout blows.

Tommy was very tall for his weight class at just over six feet and had an incredible 78 inch reach. He was a tall, slender, and deadly fighter that definitely earned his nicknames. It’s also why Hearns adopted the flicker jab, because the punch was perfect for his body type.

In many of Hearns’ biggest wins, he would rely on his flicker jabs. Flicking multiple jabs at his opponents at will and following them up with powerful crosses and hooks.

The Hitman was relentless in his attacks. Behind the flicker jab, Hearns would win championships in five different divisions.

What You Must Know Before Using the Flicker Jab

The flicker jab is an advanced boxing technique that can’t be learned overnight. Here’s what you must know before using the flicker jab.

Mastery of the Jab

You have to learn to walk before you can run. In boxing that means that you have to master the basic jab before learning the flicker jab.

Once you understand how to set up combos with a basic jab, you can then start learning the flicker jab. After that you can mix up using basic jabs and flicker jabs to keep your opponents off balance.

Understanding of Range

Understanding punching range is a must if you want to use flicker jabs. It’s a long range technique, where you have to be a good judge of distance.

If you have difficulty reading the distance between you and your opponent, this is not a technique for you. Understand the concept of punching range before using this technique or you’ll get hurt.

How to Use the Flicker Jab

The flicker jab is a great technique to base your striking around. Here is what you need to know to use flicker jabs. 

Stance 

Keep a traditional boxing stance with your feet shoulder width apart and your lead foot forward. Keep your lead hand slightly extended and in front of your face.

The Flicking Motion 

When you step forward, you’re going to flick your wrist when you throw your jab. Be sure to double or triple your jab to keep your opponent off balance and follow them with a power punch.

Deception 

One of the main purposes of the flicker jab is to distract and confuse your opponent. By throwing these flicking jabs, it confuses your opponent and throws them off their game. It also draws their attention away from the real attack that follows after the flicker jabs.

Footwork & Defense 

It’s essential for the fighter to maintain good footwork and defensive positioning while executing the flicker jab. After the initial flicking motion, the fighter should quickly return the lead hand to its defensive position and be ready to evade or block any counterattacks from the opponent.

Set-ups

While your opponent is distracted by the flicker jab, you can exploit the opening by following up with power punches. Everything from a cross, hook, or uppercut. Basically to set up power strikes.

Some combos that you can use can include:

• Flicker Jabs To Cross
• Flicker Jabs To Overhand
• Flicker Jabs To Uppercut
• Flicker Jabs To Back Hook
• Flicker Jabs To Lead Hook
• Flicker Jabs To Lead Uppercut

Of course, you can follow these basic combos with any type of punches you wish depending on the situation.

What’s the Best Body Type For the Flicker Jab 

The flicker jab is best suited for fighters that are either tall, have a long reach, or both. Using this technique will enable a fighter with a long range to control the distance of the fight.

This isn’t to say that a shorter fighter cannot utilize flicker jabs with success. Any fighter with a good jab and knowledge of range can make this technique work.

Negatives

In boxing or any striking martial art, every technique is perfect. The only negatives of the flicker jab is if you use it incorrectly. Here are some common mistakes when using the flicker jab.

Jamming Yourself

Probably the most common mistake with this punch is that fighters will jam themselves. Miscalculating the range and getting too close, which causes them to get jammed.

Not Flicking

Of course, the flicker jab involves you flicking your wrist. A quick reflex in order to snap off multiple jabs in short bursts.

When you don’t flick your wrist, your jab is weak and slow. Making it easy for your opponent to counter.

Dropping Your Hand

Along with not flicking your wrist on the jab, another common mistake is dropping your lead hand. This is also one of the most common mistakes for the traditional jab.

The flicker jab can be thrown from the hip, but if your hand keeps dropping, your opponent will make you pay.

Best Way to Learn the Flicker Jab

The effectiveness of the flicker jab lies in its ability to surprise and confuse an opponent. Like any technique, the flicker jab requires practice and timing to be executed effectively.

Take the time to go through trial and error learning the flicker jab and it’ll be a great facet of your arsenal.