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After Rekindling Their Rivalry, Can Blessing Awodibu Actually Defeat Nick Walker?
Can Blessing Awodibu beat Nick Walker?
After winning the 2022 New York Pro Blessing Awodibu reignited his rivalry with fellow standout bodybuilder Nick Walker. Both men have shared the stage before, but it was Walker who came away with the victory. Now, with his own New York Pro title under his belt, Blessing is looking to take no prisoners. But can he actually get his revenge against Walker at the 2022 Olympia?
What Each Man Brings to the Stage
It’s clear that Blessing Awodibu has the total package. He has great balance to his physique, a small waist and has been able to improve upon all the weaknesses that held him back at last year’s shows. Blessing was unable to back up all the trash talk he had done before the New York Pro. Nick Walker came into the show and absolutely dominated the field, including blessing. The chief culprit to Blessing’s failure in 2021? His less than adequate legs. However, since then, Blessing has improved upon this weakness and showed some truly impressive and well-built legs at the 2022 New York pro.
With that being said, Nick Walker will be quite the challenge to overcome. Walker possesses freakish size and pretty great conditioning himself. Perhaps the only drawback to Walker’s physique could be his blockier midsection. That point of contention is what saw him take 5th place at the 2021 Olympia behind Hunter Labrada. With that in consideration, Walker has been taking care of these issues in the offseason and hopes to bring something special to the Olympia stage come December.
What Will Blessing Need to Do to Beat Walker?
Firstly, Blessing Awodibu will have to bring up his legs even more. While his legs were truly impressive at the New York Pro, he’ll be up against the best of the best at the 2022 Olympia. There can be no room for any drawbacks if he hopes to win the show, or at least place in the top five. It’s guaranteed that Nick Walker will have the size advantage over her blessing. But what helps Blessing is his incredible structure. His massive shoulders, back, and chest coupled with his slim waist is perhaps his biggest advantage over Walker.
If Blessing utilizes superior posing as well as his unique personality and stage presence to win over the judges, he just may be able to pull it off.
The only problem is he’ll still have to deal with the likes of Big Ramy and Brandon Curry in the top three, both men holding Olympia victories to their name. There will be no small feat to overcome, but you can be sure that Blessing Awodibu will do so with a smile on his face and determination in his heart.
Do you think Blessing Awodibu can defeat Nick Walker at the 2022 Olympia?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Luke Stoltman Speaks On Leaked Call Regarding World’s Strongest Man And Giants Live
Luke Stoltman had a private conversation leaked and it has caused some controversy.
Luke Stoltman is one of the top competitors in Sacramento vying for the title of World’s Strongest Man this week. Unfortunately, the strongman is dealing with another issue that he recently decided to address.
This week, a conversation as leaked by Mark Boyd, who is a member of the World’s Ultimate Strongman organization. Stoltman was on the call speaking on some details about the World’s Strongest Man and Giants Live. In the conversation, it appears as though the group of three are discussing how groups are adjusted in a certain way for the World’s Strongest Man competition.
Stoltman recently shared a video on YouTube to speak on the action by Boyd, who seems to be interested in discrediting the competition. Just a small portion of this conversation was recorded and it did not tell the entire story.
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“At no point did I think my friends were recording the private conversation. And this conversation, by the way, it wasn’t just a minute conversation. It was about 30 minutes.”
READ MORE: 2022 World’s Strongest Man: Day One Results & Recap
Luke Stoltman on World’s Strongest Man
Luke Stoltman wanted to set the record straight about this conversation. He explains that the conversation took place in April 21. It might not be a coincidence that it was released the same week of the World’s Strongest Man.
“Unfortunately, I didn’t get a very good seeding at World’s Strongest Man, was a little annoyed at that. And just to prove a point. Last year, I won Europe’s Strongest Man and the World Tour Finals and surprise, surprise, I get great seedings at the World’s Strongest Man. It proves that the system does work in place,” Stoltman explained.
Stoltman continues to explain that he has received his seeding in the past based on his performances in Giants Live. He explained that he is under a retainer, like many athletes, and there is no corrupt business. This is a way for the company to protect itself, its athletes, and retain some of the best. Stoltman has competed in Giants Live to qualify for the World’s Strongest Man.
Giants Live has promoted the Stoltman brand, which is extremely popular led by Luke and his brother Tom Stoltman, who is the reigning champion at the World’s Strongest Man. Luke Stoltman finished his video by saying he as wrongly recorded and that his full focus is on the competition this week.
“The things I said were recorded wrongly. It was a private conversation. It was basically because I didn’t want to do World’s Ultimate Strongman.”
“That’s the bottom line. I’ve had a conversation with two friends that had wrongly recorded that conversation. I said things privately to them and they recorded that conversation…I will have nothing else to say in the matter. I have World’s Strongest Man to win. That is my main priority. That is my only priority this week.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Do Testosterone Boosters Work As They Are Intended Too?
Testosterone boosters are supposed to boost T levels, but do they work?
Suffering from low testosterone can be debilitating. It is something none of us want. But as athletes seeking the best for our gains, having our T levels at the right place is important. Testosterone boosters are around to help us get there, but as supplements that have been around for a while, some people still question if they actually work.
A good question actually. As supplements designed to improve our overall health and wellness, they should work. They need to work. Why spend money on something that doesn’t work. It simply doesn’t make sense. But it can be hard to tell sometimes if supplements work because these things affect people differently. Sometimes it is trial and error, sometimes it is finding the right product, and sometimes it is taking other measures to ensure our testosterone stays at optimal levels.
Let’s take a look at testosterone boosters and really get into these supplements. Knowing what they are and what the benefits are, plus the ins and outs of what exactly a T booster can do, we can better set ourselves up to answer the question of if these testosterone boosting supplements actually work.
What Are Testosterone Boosters?
Testosterone boosters are supplements designed to increase your testosterone levels. This may seem simple, and a definition you already know, but put simply, a testosterone booster is just that. But why this matters goes to the fact that testosterone is necessary to aid in a number of bodily functions. From things like muscle growth and recovery, to more energy and better sex drive, and into cognitive functioning, maintaining optimal levels of testosterone is important as we seek the best for our goals inside and out of the gym.
Related: How To Increase Testosterone Naturally For Explosive Gains
Benefits Of T Boosters
The benefits of testosterone boosters are important to know for this lends to the question of if they work or not. By understanding what testosterone boosters can do for you, you get more of an idea of how these can better assist your T boosting needs.
Benefits of testosterone boosters include:
More muscle growth: Testosterone can aid in protein synthesis which allows for more muscle growth and subsequently an increase in strength gains (1).
Potential fat loss: By balancing out T levels with those of estrogen, this may help shed some unwanted fat. Plus, when paired with increased muscle and strength, this can change your body composition (2).
Increased sex drive: Can increase libido and overall sexual function for an increase in your sex drive (3).
Better cognitive function and energy: With more energy, you start to feel more alert and can even have a better mood (4).
These are just a few benefits of what testosterone boosters can do, but they are incredibly important to know nonetheless.
Do They Actually Work?
When it comes down to it, whether or not testosterone boosters is hard to answer. Supplements work differently for everyone and so to definitively say one way or the other would most likely be a disservice.
However, there is a reason companies keep producing them and people keep buying them. The ingredients in testosterone boosters have long been touted as ways to improve sex drive, energy, muscle growth, and the production of testosterone. Studies have been conducted, but again, these supplements effect people differently and more factors come into play than simply taking a T booster.
Your lifestyle, what you eat, how active you are, and a host of other things come into play and can greatly affect how you and your testosterone levels operate. Testosterone boosters can work, that is why they are still around. Making sure your supplement contains natural and effective ingredients, while also being from a reputable company, is the best way to ensure your product is working for your benefit.
Related: A Deep Dive Into Testosterone Booster Ingredients For Optimal Health
Top Choice For Testosterone Booster
We wanted to share one of our top choices for testosterone boosters so you can get the most out of your supplement. With the right approach to buying, plus knowing what to look for, the right T booster is out there and it just takes a little knowledge on where and how to find it.
Testo Lab Pro
Testo Lab Pro is an ultramodern test booster making this a strong option. Great for improving masculine vitality and muscle mass, this is a great natural option.
Testo Lab Pro boasts an “ultramodern” upgrade to the testosterone-boosting blend typical of most natural booster pills making this one of the strongest natural test booster options to improve masculine vitality and muscle mass. Testo Lab Pro is allergen-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of all synthetic additives, making this a great choice for those who have allergies or other sensitivities to chemicals. From a reputable company with great benefits, Testo Lab Pro can work to increase those levels so you don’t suffer a deficiency again.
Price: $69.00
Ways To Increase Testosterone Naturally
Aside from taking a testosterone booster, there are other ways to increase your testosterone levels that can be helpful. One is eating the right foods. Things like tuna, oysters, leafy greens, certain nuts and seeds, and even coffee and ginger, can all help increase your levels of testosterone. To potentially have these work for your benefit, consider adding these into your diet and routine.
Of course, strength training can be a great help as well and there are certain exercises to add to your workout regimen that can help greatly. Working with compound exercises that act on many muscle groups can help increase testosterone so you see real results that you want most.
Check out our list of the Best Testosterone Boosters for more great T boosting products!
Wrap Up
Testosterone boosters can be great aids to those looking to increase their T levels. But some people wonder if they actually work, or are as effective as people say they are. If the ingredients are well-studied and researched and the company is reputable, there is a very high chance that is what you need to see real results. Be critical of your supplements and make sure the quality and care is there because if it is designed to improve your health and performance, it should do just that.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
Storer, Thomas W.; Magliano, Lynne; Woodhouse, Linda; Lee, Martin L.; Dzekov, Connie; et al. (2003). “Testosterone dose-dependently increases maximal voluntary strength and leg power, but does not affect fatigability or specific tension”. (source)
Corona, G.; Giagulli, V. A.; Maseroli, E.; Vignozzi, L.; et al. (2016). “Testosterone supplementation and body composition: results from a meta-analysis of observational studies”. (source)
Travison, Thomas G.; Morley, John E.; Araujo, Andre B.; O’Donnell, Amy B.; et al. (2006). “The Relationship between Libido and Testosterone Levels in Aging Men”. (source)
O’Connor, Daryl B.; Archer, John; Wu, Frederick C. W. (2004). “Effects of Testosterone on Mood, Aggression, and Sexual Behavior in Young Men: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Study”. (source)
PNBA Figure Bodybuilder Beccy Pateman’s Outdoor HIIT Workout for Fat Loss
Image via Instagram @beccypateman
PNBA Figure bodybuilder Beccy Pateman shared an outdoor HIIT workout that will help you burn stubborn body fat.
Strength training via lifting heavy weights is imperative for bodybuilders to build muscle and lose body fat. However, bodybuilders have low body fat levels when they compete, so many utilize high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts to aid with fat loss. Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA) Figure competitor Beccy Pateman shared an outdoor high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout on social media on May 15, 2022.
Beccy Pateman’s HIIT Workout
Below is Beccy Pateman’s outdoor HIIT workout.
3 Rounds
Burpees x 15
Stair Run x 3
Skipping x 60
Plank x 60
Split squats x 20
Stair Run x 3
Clap push-ups x
Squat Jumps x 15
Bicycle Crunches x 20.
*Rest 60 seconds between rounds.
Below you can see Beccy Pateman’s full post and workout on Instagram.
Benefits of Outdoor Workouts
Working out outside gives you the benefit the sun’s rays provide you. According to Men’s Bodybuilding Grand Masters 2021 Natural Olympia bronze medalist Peter Cichonski, the red light from the sun increases your lifespan. Your mitochondria (cells power) use red light to maximize cellular energy, which is why Cichonski likes to train outside.
As an added bonus, being in nature also improves your mental health, according to INBA PNBA natural bodybuilder Gomori Andras Mate.
Benefits of HIIT Workouts
Lifting heavy weights build strength and muscle to improve your body composition and speed up your metabolism. But HIIT workouts have their benefits as well. HIIT workouts don’t increase your strength as much as standard strength training with long rest periods.
However, HIIT workouts increase your strength and endurance simultaneously. Your muscular and cardiovascular endurance will improve dramatically because HIIT workouts are highly intense and involve little rest. And HIIT workouts involve a mix of cardio movements and resistance training, so you’ll get stronger too.
Moreover, if you’re short on time, HIIT workouts can be a quick and effective way to complete a workout still. Also, HIIT workouts can help you burn stubborn body fat.
HIIT Workout Benefits
Improve strength and endurance
Quick and efficient
Burns stubborn body fat
Figure Division
Beccy Pateman is a Figure professional bodybuilder. The International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/PNBA Figure category is a women’s bodybuilding division consisting of Figure and Figure Classic. They also have a Figure Masters division with women 40+. Figure women display a strong V-taper from the shoulders to the hips and thighs. Women in the Figure’s division are shapely and symmetrical but have less muscularity than the Women’s Physique class.
At 2021 Natural Olympia, Alondra Chatman won Figure Open, and Hilary Grant won Figure Masters and Figure Classic. The Figure is a competitive division with other top contenders like Veronica Malloy and Erika Sweeney.
Recap
Overall, it’s more important to perform strength workouts with heavy weights and more extended rest periods to build a bodybuilder physique. However, HIIT workouts are an efficient way to work out in less time, improve your cardio and strength simultaneously, and help you lose fat.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more workouts from professional natural bodybuilders!
Every Winner Of The Men’s Physique Division at Mr. Olympia
Photo via @jeremy_buendia Instagram, @brandon.d.hendrickson Instagram, and @raymontedmonds Instagram
Get all your winners for the Men’s Physique division at Mr. Olympia here!
The Mr. Olympia competition has been around for decades, and as fans, we love to see those mass monsters walk the stage and compete at the highest level of bodybuilding. However, pro bodybuilding sought more inclusion and with more athletes determined to compete at a pro level, they expanded Mr. Olympia into multiple divisions.
In 2013, the Men’s Physique division was born. Prepared for and judged differently, this event tends to see a real focus on the upper body. While the Men’s Open may get a little more attention, there are still some big names that come out of the Men’s Physique division.
We’ve put together a complete list of winners for the Men’s Physique division at Mr. Olympia so you can see which of these athletes have taken the top prize. As this event continues to garner great attention, fans wait to see if another repeat will happen, or if another winner will stake their claim.
Men’s Physique Olympia Winner
Mark Anthony Wingson- 2013
Jeremy Buendia- 2014-2017
Brandon Hendrickson- 2018
Raymont Edmonds- 2019
Brandon Hendrickson- 2020-2021
Mark Anthony Wingson- 2013
Mark Anthony Wingson carries a host of wins aside from this Olympia victory, including wins at the Pittsburgh Pro, New York Pro, and Grand Prix LA. He was always in the gym as a child and around 2011 he started competing, which is when he also earned his pro card. He had help from Jay Cutler, well-known bodybuilder and four-time Olympia winner, which helped lead to his victory in 2013 in the Men’s Physique division. He has since gone on to be a coach and social media personality.
Jeremy Buendia- 2014-2017
Jeremy Buendia is a four-time Olympia champion in this division, winning his first just one year after turning pro. After an injury during football, he took to the gym to build strength and get himself back to form, but he never stopped. This love of lifting carries over into bodybuilding where he’s taken down some of the greats around him at events like Mr. Olympia, as well as the San Jose Pro and Sacramento Pro.
Related: A Complete List Of Mr. Olympia Winners Throughout The Years
Brandon Hendrickson- 2018, 2020-2021
Brandon Hendrickson has a similar story to other bodybuilders in that he started casually going to the gym only to realize he loved it. Earning his pro card in 2013, Hendrickson showed no signs of slowing and began winning events like the Tampa Pro and Arnold Classic in the Men’s Physique division. His three wins have put him in a top spot at this event and as the defending champion, all eyes are on him to see if a repeat will happen.
Raymont Edmonds- 2019
Raymont Edmonds took the title in 2019 after a good start to his career when he first went pro in 2015. He placed high in shows around the country but this win at Olympia is his most notable to date. As someone capable of winning again, there will be eyes on him to see if a repeat is possible.
With Brandon Hendrickson as the defending champion, all eyes will be on this event come 2022 to see a repeat, or a potentially new champion.
Wrap Up
The Men’s Physique division at Mr. Olympia is always an entertaining event for what it brings to the sport. Still a relatively young category, plenty more athletes are bound to come to this division to test their physiques against other pros. With Mr. Olympia as a premiere and storied event in pro bodybuilding, the Men’s Physique division only adds to the action of such an event.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Jeremy Buendia Instagram, Brandon Hendrickson Instagram, and Raymont Edmonds Instagram
2022 World’s Strongest Man: Day One Results & Recap
2022 World’s Strongest Man results are in for Day 1 with complete breakdown of qualifiers.
The 2022 World’s Strongest Man competition is underway. The scene is set in Sacramento where 30 of the world’s best strongmen will compete from May 24-29 to see who will be crowned this year’s champion.
The qualifiers began on Tuesday and will run through Thursday. There are a total of six events that will be spread out over all three days. The competitors will have a chance to rest on Friday before the finals begin on Saturday. The final day of the event will take place on Sunday.
Today marked the beginning of the competition. All groups competed in the loading race and deadlift ladder. Below, you can find the results as they continue to come in from Sacramento!
2022 World’s Strongest Man: Day One Events
Loading Race – All Groups
Deadlift Ladder – All Groups
The first day of action is completed in Sacramento. Checkout the full results and current standings from the World’s Strongest Man competition.
2022 World’s Strongest Man Leaderboard
Rank
Name
Points
Group 1
1
Tom Stoltman
6
2
Kevin Faires
5
3
Aivars Smaukstelis
4
4
Andy Black
3
5
Gabriel Rheaume
2
6
Manuel Angulo
1
Group 2
1
Mitchell Hooper
6
2
Brian Shaw
5
3
Gabriel Pena
4
4
Konstantine Janashia
3
5
Bobby Thompson
2
6
Mark Felix
1
Group 3
1
Oleksii Novikov
6
2
Adam Bishop
5
3
Mika Torro
4
4
Trey Mitchell
3
5
Rob Kearney
2
6
Grzegorz Szymanski
1
Group 4
1
Martins Licis
6
2
Maxime Boudreault
5
3
Pavlo Kordiyaka
4
4
Gavin Bilton
3
5
Shane Flowers
2
6
Nedzmin Ambeskovic
1
Group 5
1
Luke Stoltman
6
2
Kelvin De Ruiter
5
3
Eythor Ingolfsson Melsted
4
4
Jean-Stephen Coraboeuf
3
5
Evan Singleton
2
6
Kim Ujarak
1
2022 World’s Strongest Man: Day One Qualifier Results
The first day of qualifiers featured two events — the loading race and deadlift ladder. This is the first day of three qualifiers where competitors will earn points in hopes of making it through to the finals over the weekend.
Through the first event, there were many familiar names at the top of the standings. Below, you can find a breakdown of each event for all five groups.
Loading Race
The Loading Race was the first event to kickoff the competition. Athletes had to load five objects of different weights onto a platform. Over the years, this has been a grueling event but the strongmen seemed up for the task. Many were able to get through all objects, making it about speed.
Notably, Tom Stoltman sits at the top of Group 1. The 2021 winner looks ready to defend his title. Oleksii Novikov and Martins Licis are also on top of their group after one event.
Group 1
Tom Stoltman – 5 in 0:38.39s
Kevin Faires – 5 in 0:43.36s
Aivars Smaukstelis – 5 in 0:44.37s
Andy Black – 5 in 0:50.81s
Gabriel Rheaume – 5 in 0:53.39s
Manuel Angulo – 4 in 1:10.64s
Group 2
Mitchell Hooper – 5 in 0:38.31s
Brian Shaw – 5 in 0:45.00s
Gabriel Pena – 5 in 0:45.88s
Konstantine Janashia – 5 in 0:49.47s
Bobby Thompson – 5 in 0:49.70s
Mark Felix – 5 in -0:54.96s
Group 3
Oleksii Novikov – 5 in 0:37.25s
Adam Bishop – 5 in 0:45.85s
Mika Torro – 5 in 0:47.84s
Trey Mitchell – 5 in 0:48.78s
Rob Kearney – 5 in 0:54.62s
Grzegorz Szymański – 4 in 0:29.85s
Group 4
Martins Licis – 5 in 0:37.37
Maxime Boudreault – 5 in 0:40.68s
Pavlo Kordiyaka – 5 in 0:43.70s
Gavin Bilton – 5 in 0:45.76s
Shane Flowers – 5 in 0:48.70s
Nedzmin Ambeskovic – 1 in 0:10.20s
Group 5
Luke Stoltman – 5 in 0:37.95s
Kelvin De Ruiter – 5 in 0:39.18s
Eythor Ingolfsson Melsted – 5 in 0:49.69s
Jean-Stephen Coraboeuf – 5 in 0:52.70s
Evan Singleton – 5 in 1:08.38s
Kim Ujarak – 4 in 0:34.79s
Deadlift Ladder
Results coming soon!
2022 World’s Strongest Man: Event Schedule
Day Two Qualifiers: Wednesday
Car Walk
Log Lift
Day Three Qualifiers: Thursday
Wrecking Ball Hold
Stone Off
Day One Finals: Saturday
Giant’s Medley
Deadlift
Flintstone Barbell
Day Two Finals: Sunday
Bus Pull
Power Stairs
Atlas Stones
Continue to tune in to our coverage of the 2022 World’s Strongest Man event for more updates. For more news, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Canelo Alvarez Targeting Trilogy Fight With Gennady Golovkin in September
Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin 3 incoming?
It appears that we could see the trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin in September. According to boxing promoter Eddie Hearn Canelo is considering battling his long time rival before a rematch with Dmitry Bivol.
Canelo Alvarez was recently upset by Dmitry Bivol and a contest that took place over Cinco de Mayo weekend. The match would be the second time that Canelo tasted defeat, the first being to Floyd Mayweather. Now it appears that the Mexican boxing star will settle the score with two-time opponent Gennady Golovkin who many argue deserved to get the nod over Canelo in their bouts.
Eddie Hearn recently shared a statement on what he believes Canelo’s next move will be.
“If he fights GGG, he’ll rematch Bivol straight after,” Hearn said. “I think a GGG fight is much bigger now than it was pre-Bivol because everyone just thought (Alvarez) was unbeatable. It’s a great fight. I’d love to do one more.”
But why now of all times? Let’s investigate.
Why Golovkin Over Bivol?
Choosing Gennady Golovkin as his next dance partner isn’t merely happenstance. At this point in his career Canelo Alvarez is choosing his opponents wisely. Golovkin while still a massive threat is a bit passed his prime. He’s forty years old and while he isn’t shopworn, he isn’t quite the unstoppable beast that he once was. Facing an aging fighter that you’ve beat once already is certainly a strong option for Canelo especially coming off a loss.
Compare that to the idea of an immediate rematch with Dmitry Bivol. The WBA light heavyweight champion proved to be too big, too slick, and too active for Canelo Alvarez to overcome. Bivol is young and in his prime. He’s the bigger man and already has a win over Canelo, that last bit giving him a psychological edge. He’s a much more dangerous fight for Canelo at this stage to have an immediate rematch. Instead Canelo should go back to the drawing board and take some time before leaping into another contest with Bivol so soon.
Dollars and Sense
Another point to mull over is the fact that a Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin trilogy fight will make more money. While Dmitry Bivol has seen his star rise after defeating Canelo, he’s not a bigger name than Golovkin. “GGG” has more brand recognition and more casual fans than Bivol at this point. That means a third meeting between Canelo and Golovkin is likely to generate more ticket sales and pay-per-view purchases. That means big money for everyone involved.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Bodybuilder Joe Mackey Deadlifts 850 Pounds At Iron Wars IV, Still Hopes To Qualify For Olympia
Joe Mackey is a professional bodybuilder who is able to reach massive numbers with his deadlift.
Joe Mackey is a professional bodybuilder but he has been putting up numbers in the gym looking like a powerlifter. He continued to show off his impressive deadlifts during CT Fletcher’s Iron abs IV on Friday. Mackey stepped up to 850 pounds on the bar and was able to make it look light in front of the cord gathered at Fletcher’s Iron Addicts Gym in Signal Hill, CA.
Mackey stepped up to the weight using a double overhand grip while wearing lifting straps and a lifting belt. He was able to lock out the bar with little struggle. In his Instagram captions, Mackey revealed that he is preparing for a bodybuilding competition and was lighter than usual during this lift.
“850 lbs tonight at Iron wars with @c.t.ali.fletcher!
Let me remind you, I’m in prep for my next bodybuilding show and I’ve lost 15 lbs since I’ve pulled 900 lbs a month ago.
I’m happy to see that 850 lbs still feels very smooth!! “
Joe Mackey did not reveal what bodybuilding show he is preparing for but it is clear that his goal is to earn qualification to the Olympia in December. Mackey will have to pickup a victory at a show to punch his ticket.
This 850-pound lift is not the heaviest that Mackey has attempted. He was able to reach the 900-pound mark in training but admitted that he was lighter during this lift.
Joe Mackey began competing in the IFBB in 2017. He placed eighth during the 2020 Tampa Pro, which was the best of his career. Mackey competed just once in 2021 during the Chicago Pro. He has yet to make his debut in 2022 but is clear that he is preparing for a return to the bodybuilding world.
“I made it up in my mind that I’d do 850 lbs prior to the event regardless of how lean I am for prep.
I knew that my weight had dropped 20 lbs since last time I did 900 lbs, however that didn’t stop me from knowing what I could still do to show up and show out.”
It is extremely impressive to see the eight that is being moved by Joe Mackey recently. It is even more impressive when learning that he preparing to make a return to bodybuilding.
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For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Pa O’Dwyer Out Of 2022 World’s Strongest Man, Andy Black To Step In
Pa O’Dwyer is a late scratch in the event due to an injury.
The lineup for the 2022 World’s Strongest Man competition has seen plenty of overhaul since it was originally announced. With the event set to kick off today, there is still some turnover. Pa O’Dwyer announced on Monday night that he will not compete due to an injury. Andy Black is prepared to step in and act as his replacement.
O’Dwyer shared the information on social media in the form of an Instagram post. He did not speak on his injury but expressed that he would not be competing and thanked his supporters for the messages.
READ MORE: 2022 World’s Strongest Man Qualifier Groups Announced
“Unfortunately had to withdraw from this years @theworldsstrongestman due to an injury which il address at a later time.Absolutely gutted is an understatement..
Thanks everyone for the messages and support?Il be back for that top 10 spot again.”
Andy Black To Replace Pa O’Dwyer
Andy Black is set to make his debut in the World’s Strongest Man. The Scottish strongman is a two-time Scotland’s Strongest Man winner so he will bring plenty of strength to the competition.
Black will enter the event at 6-foot-7 and 430 pounds. He is extremely athletic and can move well despite his size. We have seen this over the course of his career competing in six major competitions. Black finished third at the 2021 UK’s Strongest Man competition. Black has competed once this year placing sixth at the Britain’s Strongest Man.
READ MORE: How To Watch The 2022 World’s Strongest Man: Full Preview, Coverage, & Results
Over the course of his career, Black has excelled at the Atlas Stones. He has raw strength and this allows him to handle the stones in an impressive manner.
Pa O’Dwyer becomes the latest strongman to pull out of the show. Mateusz Kieliszkowski was one of the favorites to win the entire thing before pulling his name out. Grzegorz Szymanski was named his replacement. Rauna Heinla was another name that will not compete while Mitchell Hooper steps in. Most recently, Peiman Maheripourhir had to bow out with visa issues.
There were a handful of athletes decline to compete in this competition including Iron Biby, J.F. Caron, and Zydrunas Savickas. This will still be an exciting event with some of the world’s best prepared to make an appearance.
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Every Winner Of The World’s Strongest Man Competition
Photo via @thorbjornsson Instagram, @novikov_strong_wsm, and @tomstoltmanofficial Instagram
Get all the winners for World’s Strongest Man here!
Beginning in 1977, the big question was posed to the world- who is the world’s strongest man? It is an interesting question and one many people began to wonder. And so it began. The World’s Strongest Man event recruited some of the biggest and strongest athletes from around the world and for decades has entertained audiences as best it can. With insane events that see athletes lifting all sorts of objects, each year the world has been able to crown a winner.
But each year, the competition grows. Athletes show up looking bigger and stronger and the event has been forced to change how it operates as a result. To watch these men lift and pull and throw some of the craziest objects in efforts to be crowned World’s Strongest Man is something to marvel at. It is all so impressive to say the least.
We have compiled a list of the overall winners from World’s Strongest Man throughout the years so you can see just who made it to that top podium spot. An event unlike any other, it has seen plenty of people succeed in their personal goals, some fail in efforts to make it to the top, and the best athletes host the trophy high as they are crowned World’s Strongest Man.
2022 World’s Strongest Man
The 2022 World’s Strongest Man event is set to take place May 24-29 in Sacramento, California. Athletes will take on events like the Deadlift Ladder, Car Walks, Log Lift, and Bus Pulls in efforts to take home the top prize. Stacked with competition, this contest is bound to be amazing to watch.
World’s Strongest Man Winners
Bruce Wilhelm- 1977
Bruce Wilhelm- 1978
Don Reinhoudt- 1979
Bill Kazmaier- 1980
Bill Kazmaier- 1981
Bill Kazmaier- 1982
Geoff Capes- 1983
Jon Pall Sigmarsson- 1984
Geoff Capes- 1985
Jon Pall Sigmarsson- 1986
NOT HELD- 1987
Jon Pall Sigmarsson- 1988
Jamie Reeves- 1989
Jon Pall Sigmarrson- 1990
Magnus Ver Magnusson- 1991
Ted van der Parre- 1992
Gary Taylor- 1993
Magnus Ver Magnusson- 1994
Magnus Ver Magnusson- 1995
Magnus Ver Magnusson- 1996
Jouko Ahola- 1997
Magnus Samuelson- 1998
Jouko Ahola- 1999
Janne Virtanen- 2000
Svend Karlsen- 2001
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2002
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2003
Vasyl Virastyuk- 2004
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2005
Phil Pfister- 2006
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2007
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2008
Zydrunas Savickas- 2009
Zydrunas Savickas- 2010
Brian Shaw- 2011
Zydrunas Savickas- 2012
Brian Shaw- 2013
Zydrunas Savickas- 2014
Brian Shaw- 2015
Brian Shaw- 2016
Eddie Hall- 2017
Hafthor Julius Bjornsson- 2018
Martins Licis- 2019
Oleksii Novikov- 2020
Tom Stoltman- 2021
Bruce Wilhelm- 1977-1978
Bruce Wilhelm won the first two contests and competed at the Pan-American Games in 1975 and the Olympics in 1976. He continued to stay involved with World’s Strongest Man for a time after he stopped competing.
Don Reinhoudt- 1979
Don Reinhoudt was a force in the powerlifting world until he retired in 1976. That love of competing never left and he wanted to continue that with World’s Strongest Man. And he did with this win in 1979.
Bill Kazmaier- 1980-1982
Bill Kazmaier was a big name in a few circuits and not only won three WSM events but also two International Powerlifting Federation World Championships. For these results, some call him one of the greatest strength athletes ever.
Related: A Breakdown: What To Look For At A Strongman Event
Geoff Capes- 1983, 1985
Geoff Capes won a couple WSM events but didn’t stop there. He also has wins at Europe’s Strongest Man and Britain’s Strongest Man as well.
Jon Pall Sigmarsson- 1984, 1986, 1988, 1990
This Icelandic strongman’s record speaks for itself and Jon Pall Sigmarsson is one of those WSM legends. Aside from his four wins here, he also is a two-time Europe’s Strongest Man winner and a five-time World Muscle Power Champion.
NOT HELD- 1987
Jamie Reeves- 1989
Jamie Reeves, like a lot of these WSM winners, also has wins at Britain’s Strongest Man and the World Muscle Power Championships. But this former coal miner proved he was a top strength athlete with this win in 1989.
Magnus Ver Magnusson- 1991, 1994-1996
Another force out of Iceland, Magnus Ver Magnusson took home four of these WSM titles. He also has his own Strongman event called the Magnus Ver Magnusson Classic where the winner qualifies for World’s Strongest Man.
Ted van der Parre- 1992
Ted van der Parre represents the Netherlands with this win in 1992. Along with this WSM win, he also is a multi-winner at Netherlands Strongest Man.
Gary Taylor- 1993
Gary Taylor was a bodybuilder and Olympic lifter, as well as a strongman. His win in 1993 was one of many at other contests until an injury forced him to retire from all Strongman competitions.
Related: A Strongman Guide To Diet & Proper Food Intake For Max Gains
Jouko Ahola- 1997, 1999
This two-time Finnish strongman may have won WSM twice, but Jouko Ahola has also starred in a number of films. Other notable finishes include wins at Europe’s Strongest Man and Finland’s Strongest Man.
Magnus Samuelson- 1998
Magnus Samuelson reached the WSM podium on a number of occasions with his only win coming in 1998. This strongman and actor had a great career in both, despite his failed mistake of turning down what could have been a great role in Gladiator.
Janne Virtanen- 2000
Janne Virtanen took home the top prize in 2000 and also has notable finishes at a number of other events like Finland’s Strongest Man, the Helsinki Grand Prix, and World Strongman Challenge.
Svend Karlsen- 2001
Svend Karlsen was not only a strongman, but a powerlifter and bodybuilder as well. He earned his IFBB pro card but when an injury took him out of contention, he turned to strongman and won WSM in 2001.
Mariusz Pudzianowski- 2002-2003, 2005, 2007-2008
With five WSM titles, Mariusz Pudzianowski was a force in the world of strongman. During this stretch of WSM contest, Pudzianowski definitely had the target on his back but kept fighting and winning in impressive fashion.
Vasyl Virastyuk- 2004
Coming out of Ukraine, Vasyl Virastyuk is a six-time Ukraine’s Strongest Man winner and winner of the 2004 WSM event. He is also more than just a lifter, having been sworn in as a member of Ukraine’s parliament in 2021.
Phil Pfister- 2006
Phil Pfister was the first American to win WSM since 1982 when Bill Kazmaier took home the title. After retiring, he has been seen in film and television, as well as acting as a commentator for WSM events.
Zydrunas Savickas- 2009-2010, 2012, 2014
Zydrunas Savickas has been around the sport a long time and is also seen as one of the best strength athletes. His four wins at WSM don’t lie, and neither do his 8 wins at the Arnold Strongman Classic and 16 wins at Lithuania’s Strongest Man.
Brian Shaw- 2011, 2013, 2015-2016
Brian Shaw has 26 international wins and joins the list of other notable and decorated strongmen. An impressive list of accomplishments throughout his career, one notable is his win at the Arnold Strongman Classic and World’s Strongest Man in the same year, which he has done twice.
Eddie Hall- 2017
Eddie Hall took home the WSM prize in 2017, but has notable wins at UK’s Strongest Man, Britain’s Strongest Man, and England’s Strongest Man. Aside from his lifting career, he has also appeared in film and television and stays active outside of sport.
Related: Steal These 3 Strongman Moves And Become A Massive Badass
Hafthor Julius Bjornsson- 2018
Best known for his role as The Mountain on HBO’s Game of Thrones, Hafthor Julius Bjornsson has 30 international wins and was the first to win the Arnold Strongman Classic, Europe’s Strongest Man, and World’s Strongest Man contests in the same year. He also boxed fellow WSM winner Eddie Hall and won by unanimous decision.
Martins Licis- 2019
Martins Licis most recently won the 2022 Arnold Strongman Classic and is a force in the lifting world. His WSM win in 2019 is matched by his on screen appearances in TV and commercials, which are highly entertaining.
Oleksii Novikov- 2020
Oleksii Novikov represented Ukraine well and took home the top prize nearly 16 years after fellow Ukrainian Vasyl Virastyuk did in 2004. Despite having certain training setbacks given his draft status in 2022, he won Europe’s Strongest Man in impressive fashion.
Tom Stoltman- 2021
Tom Stoltman was the first ever winner from Scotland and follows in his brother Luke’s footsteps as a strongman and real contender. He also has notable wins at Britain’s Strongest Man and Scotland’s Strongest Man and continues to be a real force in the lifting world.
Wrap Up
The World’s Strongest Man competition is one to marvel at for what these athletes put themselves through in order to be the best. When it comes down to it, what you will find is a seriously competitive event full of insane tests of strength and sheer will with amazing athletes willing to take on the challenge. Tune into World’s Strongest Man and see which athlete takes home the top prize and add their name to the list of World’s Strongest Man legends.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Hafthor Julius Bjornsson Instagram, Oleksii Novikov Instagram, and Tom Stoltman Instagram