Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou Withdraws From 2023 World’s Strongest Man; Kristján Jón Haraldsson Steps In

[Muscle Insider]

Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou is arguably the greatest Strongman from the African continent, but he has not competed in a standard competition for almost two years. Consequently, he was thrilled to be named in the 30-man lineup for the 2023 World’s Strongest Man, taking place in Myrtle Beach, SC, from April 19-23. When the competition day arrived, Iron Biby was not in the starting lineup. Thus, Giants Live posted the news of Iron Biby’s withdrawal on their Instagram account. It is currently not clear what the exact reason for Iron Biby’s withdrawal was, but there are rumors that he is struggling with a bicep injury.


Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou was one of the most exciting names on the lineup list, since he is one of the greatest athletes in regard to the aspect of stationary strength. Most notably, Iron Biby is notorious for his overhead press strength. He also holds the Log Lift World Record, having locked out 229 kilograms (504.8 pounds) at the 2021 World Log Lift Championships.


During his seven year long professional career Iron Biby managed to take part in nine International competitions, but failed to come out with a win. However, he did stand on two podiums and finished in the top five a couple of times as well.



Related: Strongman Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou Stiff Bar Deadlifts 400-kg (881.8-lb) For Two Reps


Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou’s Replacement
Kristján Jón Haraldsson stepped in as the replacement for Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou at the 2023 World’s Strongest Man. Coming from Iceland, a country known for its Strongman athletes, Haraldsson is a real threat to his opponents.


Kristján Jón Haraldsson is mostly known for his victories at the 2022 Iceland’s Strongest Man and 2022 Strongest Man In Iceland competitions. Even though their names are similar, both competitions are among Iceland’s best.


Overall, Kristján Jón Haraldsson has taken part in nine International and National competitions, and the aforementioned two are his only victories. However, having only been active in the sport since 2018, Haraldsson has definitely achieved a lot already. In addition, he is still 24-years-old, which is very young for a Strongman athlete.



Related: Iron Biby Shatters Axle Press World Record, Gets Praise From Eddie Hall


Day one of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man is currently ongoing with three events on the schedule for today. Although Cheick “Iron Biby” Sanou has withdrawn, Kristján Jón Haraldsson has already proven to be an adequate replacement. In the first event, the Loading Race, he performed well, finishing second in his group, just behind the 2020 World’s Strongest Man champion, Oleksii Novikov.


2023 World’s Strongest Man Content

Find complete coverage of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man, including exclusive interviews, event recaps, analysis, and results at our WSM coverage hub: FitnessVolt.com/wsm


Published: 19 April, 2023 | 10:40 AM EDT






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