New Tampa Firefighter Defends World Arm-Wrestling Title

is, once again, world super-heavyweight World & Police Fire Games arm-wrestling champion.

After defending his prestigious – and humbling – title, in the shadows of ground zero and New York City’s remembrance of 9/11, the 6-foot-4-inch 285-pound man mountain has been back fighting fires, and sharing his story with friends and media.

DeMatthews, part of Tampa Fire Rescue Station 21 in New Tampa, made quick work of fellow giant, and Australian Murray McKay with his patented “top-roll” move to secure his coveted title in front of a packed Javits Center, north of the future One World Trade Center.

No stranger to winning or his sport’s global, cult following, even DeMatthews was moved by his reception and admitted this title was different. Much sweeter for a firefighter, born in New Jersey and banded in spirit to the heroes of 9/11, watching his country’s flag raised – in Olympic-style celebration - to the national anthem.

DeMatthews has navigated media appearances with Fox News and Bubba The Love Sponge without a Twitter account, while keeping his priorities intact: firefighter, paramedic and family man.

He’s back blasting his 22-inch arms for his next arm-wrestling event, and a debut in the regional MMA circuit. DeMatthews talked world titles and future plans with Patch.

Q: You actually had to look up to your latest arm wrestling victim. Any concerns entering the final match?

A: Australia’s top arm wrestler. He had an entire camera crew following him for a month before the competition, but a really nice guy.

The way that I trained, the zone, I wasn’t worried about who they put on the table.

Q: For a firefighter, your surroundings must have been humbling. Plus, you’re from the area.

A: I went to Ground Zero, I hadn’t been back since the towers fell. Competition was in the Jacob Javits Center … but wasn’t far at all.

Q: Considering the circumstances, what did you take away from your friends in NYC public safety?

A: The whole vibe, it was a whole different atmosphere. That brotherhood the whole Northeast has as firefighters and cops … night and day from here.

Q: Speaking of family, you were born in New Jersey. Did you turn any family into fans?

A: That was great. That was awesome. I hadn’t seen them in a long time. They came for the entire competition.

Q: Considering the circumstances, defending this title must have meant more than most. Any special celebration?

A: I dedicate the big titles to one of my kids. I dedicated this one to my girlfriend, Summer. Without her, I wouldn’t be able to accomplish half the stuff I do. She’s my biggest fan.

Q: How is your MMA training going? When do we get to see you in the cage?

A: Jay Adams (Tampa MMA promoter) has me on one of his next cards, as soon as I tell him I’m ready. That could be anywhere from Miami to Philadelphia.

Q: What about arm wrestling? When is your next big competition?

A: The firefighter nationals that I’ll do in November. Florida state title is held in Jacksonville in December. I want that title. I want to get it back.

Q: Training for two sports, firefighter, paramedic, family man, anything else you have going on?

A: I’m doing a charity event, Heart for the Arts … a table where people can arm wrestle me and donate to the charity. It’s going to be in St. Pete, November 5th.