Geoffrey R. Hale Jr, American fighter, is one of world’s most charismatic armwrestlers. His conduct at the table is the talk of the town, although it often receives mixed feelings from the audience. Some like his assertiveness, others look at it as narcissism. There are a lot of opinions on Hale, but one thing is for certain: he’s not only a great fighter, but also one of the most recognizable ones.

In 2007 Geoffrey graduated from college, geological studies, and started his search for hydrocarbons. Nowadays he’s working as a geologist in the oil industry, he has his own company. He’s working with many big organizations in Oklahoma, USA. But the largest part of his life is devoted to armwrestling.

I’ve started doing armwrestling in August 2005 – recalls Geoffrey Hale. – Since that time I’ve won many trophies, and many competitions. At present I’m number one in the North America, in my weight category. Before I leave the sport, I wish to become WAF world champion.

To reach his goal, Geoffrey utilizes his whole knowledge arsenal. Before all, he trains.

I have four sparrings a week – says Jeff. – I work hard, I pay a lot of attention to my health. I also work as a personal trainer.

Sports is one of his main occupations, his wife gives him loads of support.

I’ve been married for two years now – says Jeff. – I’m very happy to have my best friend as my wife. She’s my partner, my support, my other half. Without her I wouldn’t be the man I am now.

Geoffrey is a businessman, a good and kindhearted guy – that’s what people around him think. But the audience see Hale as a rapturous, temperamental sportsman, who fights to dominate.

I become a different man at the table – says Geoffrey. – That man is the “HaleRaiser”, a guy invented by me. Normally I’m a very balanced and calm guy. The “HaleRaiser” is only a part of me. People who know me, know the difference. I’m very proud of my creation.

Geoffrey’s popularity is caused not only by his behavior at the table, but also his active self-promotion in the internet. Hale is a media guy. There’s no trouble promoting him. It’s important to be active in the internet and social channels – says Hale. – I think every armwrestler should be on Facebook, Twitter or VKontakte. It’s free advertisement for the sport, too. We need to promote armwrestling, widen its horizons, get more people to love it. Telling others about it, sharing knowledge, posting pics and videos – that’s the best way to promote our sport. Jeffrey also contacts other fighters via Internet. There are no armwrestling events that he wouldn’t know about.

I think that the number one armwrestler in the world is Michael Todd. On the other hand, Denis Tsyplenkov is physically the strongest fighter on the planet. It would be interesting to see them fight. John Brzenk is doing his best to get back in the game, but I have to say I don’t see him getting as far as he used to be. I think Voevoda has a chance to come back, but he has a long climb ahead of him. He’s been away too long. Bobsledding is a completely different sport. He was great when he wrestled, but it would be hard for him to face guys with a few years training over him.

What motivates a man, who motivates others to work? What makes a man push forward?

I gate inspired by music, movies, famous sportsmen, friends and family – says Geoffrey. – For example, my stage persona was inspired by my father. My fighting style was created under Bruce Lee’s influence. His quote saying to be like water, to adapt to your opponent – that’s my motto. I’m also inspired by people like Neil Pickup, Tsvetan Gashevski, Chad Silvers, Cobra Rodos and Arsen Liliev. I have no armwrestling idol. Many of my motivations come from within myself and my goals. I think it’s important to challenge oneself. Jeff Hale fought in the 2013 World Championships. He had no success then, but his failure was due mostly to differences in refereeing on the other side of the ocean.

My views on modern armwrestling are positive, but I’m not happy with the rules concerning elbow fouls – says Geoffrey. – I think the most interesting events are armfights. The rules are less rigorous, and 5-6 rounds help establish who’s really the strongest. Tournaments, with only 1 – 2 attempts don’t offer the same possibilities. I’ll always fight in tournaments, but I’ll always prefer armfights. Armwrestling is my passion and I want to see it develop and get more and more popular.

Artur Grigorian