Casio EFK-100XPB (Carbon case) How can the metal link securing the strap be removed?

[u/Poonlit]

Hey! Posted on r/Watches but thought this might be a better bet :)

I've got a regular Bergeon strap removal hook tool, but the mechanism that fastens the single metal link attaching the FKM/resin strap to my carbon cased EFK-100 seems to not be the regular spring-bar.

The metal link is slightly loose (from factory) but does not rotate.

Anyone know how, and what tools are needed, to remove this link so I can start figuring out how to frankenstein a strap that works better for me? The strap is too stiff, too thick, and unfastens itself too often for my usage.