Brashear's interview

by Dmitry Chesnokov sovsport.ru

Our correspondent met with the best NHL enforcer Donald Brashear who answered the questions from the fans via www.sovsport.ru site. You'll find the complete interview in the next issues of sovetsky sport.

DUBINA : Is it true that Joey Kocur had a punch of horrendous blow force? Have you ever fought him?

A. Yes, once I had a scrap with Joey. I tried to stand for him, but he was punching and punching me. Kocur was hitting me in the helmet like a power hammer and in the end the helmet split! I remember the next day I had a terrible pain, my gums on the left side of my head were hurting even though he was hitting me on the right side of my face. I couldn't chew anything. I wonder what it would be if I did not have a helmet? Too scary.

Lekha, Riga: Would you accept the bout against Nikolai Valuyev if you offered decent premium?

A. Against Valuev? I am not crazy! In general I don't think I could box professionally. I was boxing at the amateur level, I had a soft helmet, Brashear makes a gesture with his hands, as if he is putting it on. But to become a professional? You have to fight big guys who have years of training. Plus, they all punch with incredible impact force! I don't think I wish to risk my health.

Yatskevich Alexander, Grodno: Who do you think is the best Russian hockey player? And would agree to come to Russian super league if you'd be paid big bucks?

A. Best Russian hockey player? Of course, Alexander Ovechkin! He is young and very talented. He has the ability to apply force, can play at the corners. He doesn't fight, and it is not necessary for him because I am there. But if a situation arises I am pretty sure Ovechkin can beat up anybody.

I was thinking to play in Russia during the lockout. Even this year I was thinking about it and would come to super league, but Washington extended my contract. I do not know if I'll play in Russia in the future. But there were teams that were interested.

Andrei, Yaroslavl: Donald, can you tell what fight you remember the most?

A. No question, my very first fight. As soon as I remember... Brashear laughs and rolls up his eyes. I was shaking. I was too nervous because that fight was with Bob Probert. I remember him grabbing me, I grabbed him too, but because I was too stressed I didn't move as if I was paralyzed. Probert tried to strike, I dodged and fell. My first fight lasted about two seconds. And then even the referees could not raise me from ice because my legs were shaking.

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