I've seen some big ones.
Nothing that would compare to that one.
I've seen pics of a couple 5-6' blues caught in a Damb but 8' is a whole other story!
Biggest personally ever swam with was in the 55-60lbs flathead. I caught the smaller 25lb flat head by hand.
He would have been tasty but opted to release.
It was about the battle all underwater!
Cool to battle one by hand the release it under water!

When we used to noodle turtles and such the catfish will take a hold of you!
Underwater they will as well!
The look on the group we were diving with was priceless!
I was smart enough to not let him get past my thumb, they get tougher to get off your arm!

JCG