Eddie Hall backs Brian Shaw to beat Leonidas Arkona in East vs West Arm Wrestling clash

Photo by Mark R. Milan/Getty Images

Eddie Hall has backed Brian Shaw to return to arm wrestling with a win when he appears at East vs West this weekend.

Shaw is lined up against Leonidas Arkona in the co-main event of East vs West Arm Wrestling on April 18 in Germany, with the event available on pay-per-view. Shaw, a four-time World’s Strongest Man, faces an opponent who is more familiar with the discipline.

Arkona also comes from a strongman background but brings more competitive arm wrestling experience than Shaw. Still, Hall – who is getting ready for his Misfits Boxing bout against Tommy Fury – believes his friend’s power and adaptability will be enough.

Eddie Hall puts faith in Brian Shaw for East vs West Arm Wrestling event

Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images

Eddie Hall and Brian Shaw have spent plenty of time together across various sports, from strongman competitions to MMA training. They’ve even tried their hand at sumo wrestling, which didn’t go quite as planned. But through all of it, Hall has come to know exactly what Shaw is capable of and doesn’t doubt his chances this weekend in Germany.

Shaw has already dipped his toes into competitive arm wrestling, including a notable win over Hall himself. His opponent this time, Leonidas Arkona, comes with a bit more experience and has faced some tough competition along the way.

Still, Hall isn’t worried about Shaw’s chances. Speaking to Bloody Elbow, he said: “Look, I’ve arm wrestled Brian myself and he is a big, strong guy. But this is a tough opponent, he’s going up against a real experienced arm wrestler.

“He’s got his work cut out for him, but I think Brian will get it. The thing is with Brian, he is a natural giant of this world and that can’t be underestimated.”