During the podcast between Artyom Morozov and Devon Larratt on the Legacy Hammer, Devon expressed that he would never forget the respect and admiration he had for Denis Cyplenkov, but that now they had become enemies. Furthermore he expressed that if Denis wanted, they could face each other after the East vs West 15 event, so that he could collect the hammer and pass it on himself to Artyom Morozov. However, it seems obvious that Denis will not accept this challenge, given his current physical condition.
However, Devon expressed his incomprehension at the excuses everyone is making for Denis, claiming that he is now “weak". He noted that he is ten years older than Denis, has “more miles” and plans to weigh 105 kg for the event. According to Devon, Denis will never have a better opportunity to beat him: the conditions could not be more favorable for him, especially since he is training left arm again and will probably not stay for a long time in the 105 kg category.
Artyom Morozov, for his part, shared that he adheres to the concept of the Legacy Hammer, that he is honored to be its rightful owner and that he wishes to continue the tradition. Artyom intends to improve the hammer and pass it on to Vitali Laletin if he manages to defeat him. However, he lamented that Devon sometimes took things too far to attract attention and create "drama".
In response, Devon clarified that his motivation was not personal, but that he was fighting for Artyom and Vitali, so that the hammer goes to those who truly deserve it. He revealed that he had sent private messages to Denis and his loved ones for years, without ever receiving a response. Devon understands that Denis kept the hammer during his illness and the Covid period, but once he returned to competition, notably at King of the Table and East vs West, he became clear that he was no longer the best. According to Devon, Denis should have passed the hammer at that point. If he has become more virulent in his communication it is because Denis has had the hammer for 6 years without having defended it.
Artyom concluded by acknowledging that the situation was complicated for him, as both Devon and Denis are idols to him. He expressed his understanding of everyone's points of view, and how difficult it was for him to take a stand for one or the other.
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