Tag: nEWS
Tom Stoltman Reacts To Second Place Finish at 2023 WSM: ‘I Gave Everything I Had This Year’
The past two years in Strongman were defined by just a few names, the most notable being Tom Stoltman. The Scottish athlete was crowned as the World’s Strongest Man in both 2021 and 2022, joining the elite club of those who have managed to defend their title. In addition, Tom Stoltman was aiming to win his third consecutive title at the 2023 World’s Strongest Man contest, which took place on April 19-23, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This would make him the first athlete with three wins in a row since Magnús Ver Magnússon achieved the same in 1991. However, Tom came just short of the title this year, having to satisfy himself with a second-place finish.
Tom Stoltman was fired up going into the finals of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man, as the scheduled events looked great for him. So, finishing day one of the finals, which featured the Shield Carry, Deadlift, and Fingal’s Fingers, Tom sat in second place, just one point behind Mitchell Hooper. This seemed like a perfect situation for Tom Stoltman, since the second day of the finals was supposed to feature the events which are in his favor.
The second day of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man finals started with the Max Dumbbell event. This was the worst out of the three events for Tom, but he still had some hope. Mitchell Hooper, his rival, has previously displayed quite poor performances in this event. Therefore, it was expected that Tom would place higher than him this time around. However, in a shocking and amazing display, Hooper tied for first place in the event, while Tom got stuck in a four-man tie for third place. Due to this, Hooper extended the lead to 4 points.
Tom Stoltman still had hope, as the second event was the Bus Pull, which usually suits the bigger guys like Tom better than those of Hooper’s build. In turn, Tom performed extremely well, beating six of the athletes with two more yet to come. However, in an unbelievable turn of events, Evan Singleton clocked the exact same time of 32.27 seconds and Tom once again had to share points. In addition, Hooper once again surprised everyone and won his fourth event of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man finals.
The final event was the Atlas Stones, Tom Stolmans’s dearest event. However, even though everyone knew that Tom was going to win, it was almost impossible to catch up on Hopper’s lead of 5.5 points. Hooper also put in a great performance, winning the competition overall as well.
Tom Stoltman’s 2023 World’s Strongest Man Performance
Qualifying
Loading Race: 5 in 43.84 s (Second-Place)
Deadlift Machine: 6 reps (Tied-Second)
Log Ladder: 5 in 41.56 s (First-Place)
Conan’s Wheel: 598 ° (Sixth-Place)
Kettlebell Toss: 6 in 21.99 s (Third-Place)
Stone-Off: 3 stones (Won / Qualified)
Finals
Reign Shield Carry: 63.15 m (Second-Place)
Knaack Deadlift: 6 reps (Fifth-Place)
Fingal’s Fingers: 5 in 39.36 s (First-Place)
Max Dumbbell: 132 kg (Tied-Third)
Bus Pull: 32.27 s (Tied-Second)
Atlas Stones: 5 in 33.26 s (First-Place)
Related: Exclusive: Tom Stoltman Believes He Could Win Six WSM Titles to Become The Winningest Strongman Ever
Despite the fact that Tom Stoltman did not win his third title this year, he is still satisfied with what he has accomplished. This was his fourth podium placement in the final four years, but it is even more special since many people doubted him after the 2023 Arnold Strongman Classic.
“I gave everything I had this year! Hitting the big dumbbell was a personal goal for myself and been consistent throughout. I’m very proud.”
Tom Stoltman has previously talked about his goals for the future, which include a 505-kilogram (1,113.3-pound) deadlift, as well as more WSM titles. It’s uncertain what path his career will take in the future, but we hope that losing his WSM title doesn’t have a negative impact on him.
Discover comprehensive coverage of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition at our WSM coverage hub, featuring exclusive interviews, final results, event recaps and in-depth analysis: FitnessVolt.com/wsm
Published: 25 April, 2023 | 9:28 AM EDT
Urs Kalecinski And Jay Cutler Wreck A Potent Back Workout
Urs Kalecinski is leaving no opportunity to learn from the greats and recently partnered with Jay Cutler for an off-season back workout in Germany. Kalecinski is Germany’s flag bearer in the IFBB Pro League’s Classic Physique division. His emergence in the top end of the division has been astonishing and quick. After a few respectable performances, ‘The Miracle Bear’ finished the 2021 competitive season with a surprising 4th place finish at his Olympia debut.
He kicked off 2022 with a third spot at the 2022 Arnold Classic and secured a win at the 2022 Boston Pro, earning direct qualification to the 2022 Olympia. He also competed at the 2022 Kuwait Classic Pro to bag another win and walked away with a third-place finish at the 2022 Olympia.
Kalecinski last competed at the 2023 Arnold Classic Physique and managed to get a runner-up finish in spite of having to deal with food poisoning a few days before the show. He is now working relentlessly to build a more refined version of his body for the next competitive season.
Recently, he partnered with legendary bodybuilder Jay Cutler for a training session. A 4-time Mr. Olympia, Cutler is revered for his mindful approach to training. As a result, he was able to lead a much healthier life in retirement without having to put up with the consequences of an arduous bodybuilding lifestyle. He has accustomed well to the age of the internet and social media and remains one of the most prominent voices of the sport.
Cutler and Kalecinski did a back workout together. So let’s delve into the magical world of bodybuilding and see how they maintain their impeccable physiques with training.
Urs Kalecinski and Jay Cutler go through a back workout
The back workout was Kalecinski and Cutler’s second joint training session with each other. They partnered for a shoulder workout back in December 2022. Reminiscing the experience, Cutler stated:
“Last time we trained together… you were very depleted and it was one week out (of the 2023 Arnold Classic). So now we’re actually spending time together when we’re both in our off-season because I start my transformation on May 1st.”
With that, the duo jumped into the workout and pushed each other to do better throughout the session.
Lat Pulldowns
Cutler and his companion commenced the training session with lat pulldowns for stimulating the latissimus dorsi muscles. The duo worked with a plate-loaded iso-lateral machine to warm up the upper body posterior muscles and executed a few sets.
Bent Over Dumbbell Rows
Performing this compound movement is a crucial component of developing mass and strength in the upper posterior muscles. Bent over dumbbell rows engage all the pulling muscles and help with complete back development.
The bodybuilder duo pushed through some heavy sets of the movement as The Miracle Bear could not help but marvel at Cutler’s infectious enthusiasm.
“I love his work ethic. Close to 50 and still don’t give a s***” Urs Kalecinski exclaimed.
Machine Pullovers
This variation of pullovers has similar benefits as the cable pullovers. It has several benefits like improved mind-muscle connection, trunk and scapular stability, increased strength and muscle hypertrophy. Pullovers primarily work the lats and pectoral muscles. Cutler has spoken about the efficacy of pullovers for back development on many occasions. While Explaining the benefits of this exercise this time, Jay Cutler said:
“This is an ideal exercise to really bring out the v-taper which a lot of gyms don’t have.”
Cutler and Kalecinski absolutely wrecked some heavy sets of pullovers on a selectorized machine to bring that v-taper out and took to the next exercise.
While chatting with Urs and his associates during the workout, Cutler opined that Urs can definitely become an Olympia champion in future. He further stated that even if he doesn’t win right now, Urs is a fan favorite and has already captured the sport fans’ imagination.
“All it takes is for him to deserve it even if he doesn’t win or if he’s already winning. What I mean is he’s right there, he’s a fan favorite and if he spends more time in the US, he’s gonna dominate the US market too with popularity. He just needs to be there more,” Jay Cutler said.
He added:
“Here I see it. This is the first time I came to Germany for this interaction and every fan was there for him. I said who’s the best bodybuilder in Germany and they say Urs! And for that not to be an Open guy is a different world for me.”
T-Bar Rows
This compound movement contributes significantly to building a thick back. T-Bar row is a complete back exercise that works all the pulling muscles in the back. Cutler and Kalecinski cranked out a few high-volume sets of this exercise to stimulate the back muscles more before taking to the next movement.
Seated Machine Rows
The training partners next performed a few sets of machine seated rows to work the back muscles. It is an excellent way to build the back as stabilization is not required to perform the movement. Seated machine rows work all the major muscles like latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, erector spinae and trapezius. After going through some grueling sets of the movement, Cutler and Kalecinski worked with a vertical pulling movement next.
Bent Over Cable Straight Arm Pulldowns
The duo wrapped up the training session by getting some solid sets of this exercise under the belt. Straight arm pulldowns stimulate the latissimus dorsi, posterior deltoids, triceps brachii and teres minor muscles. Additionally, they activate the levator scapulae during the eccentric phase of the movement.
After performing a few sets of the movement, Jay Cutler and Urs Kalecinski called it a day in the gym.
The workout included following exercises:
Jay Cutler and Urs Kalecinski forced themselves to come to the gym in spite of having been through a tiring long day. Their growth and success can be attributed to the mindset of discipline and consistency. The 2023 competitive season is getting closer and looking at the intensity in training, we can certainly expect big things.
You can watch the full workout video here, courtesy of Urs Kalecinski’s personal YouTube channel:
Published: 25 April, 2023 | 8:48 AM EDT
The Rock Shares ‘Intense and Controlled’ Chest & Back Workout: ‘Focused and Slow’
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson makes the most of his workouts despite a busy schedule. In his latest gym visit, The Rock shared a brutal training session of 275-pound Smith machine incline bench presses for reps.
As a former professional wrestler for major organizations such as the WWE and WWF, The Rock’s brand and name recognition quickly grew following his transition into acting. With a role in Marvel’s standalone success, Black Adam, and many other ventures, The Rock’s entertainment projects have totaled more than $3 billion in the United States.
The Rock lives by his motto of being the hardest worker in the room. He regularly showcases grueling workouts online and pushes the pace regardless of the time. From brutal chest and upper body training sessions to ‘killer leg day finishers,’ Johnson attacks his schedule with maximum intensity, which he credits for helping him maintain such an impressive physique.
In a recent Instagram post, The Rock demonstrated how he finishes a chest and back training session with Smith machine incline bench presses. He offered tips for avoiding shoulder stress during the movement.
The Rock Pushes Through 275-Lb Smith Machine Incline Bench Press for Reps
Check out The Rock’s latest chest and back workout below:
“Saturday morning chest & back training
Good ‘mental inventory’ day after a crazy busy week.Man I needed it
Smith machine incline I do towards the end of my chest workout when my chest is fatigued.Not too heavy.275LBS
Be mindful as to how far you bring the weight down to mitigate that stress on your shoulders (I had complete shoulder reconstruction surgery – you don’t want that fun pain in your life, so take my advice)Focused, slow & controlled.3 second negatives.Intense and controlled.
Give it a try and have a productive weekend (and fun;) my friends.
~ dj” The Rock posted.
Johnson prefers not to overload the shoulders with weight as he’s undergone shoulder reconstruction surgery. Instead, he utilizes lighter weight and slows down his reps to maximize the pump with time under tension.
In addition to training sessions, The Rock likes to show off massive cheat meals, which he typically consumes on leg days. Some of his more notable meals included burgers from the In-N-Out fast food chain and his signature ‘power-packed’ breakfast consisting of steak, eggs, oatmeal, and five peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
The Rock’s famous cheat meals even got the attention of influencer Brian Johnson, well-known as Liver King. Earlier this month, Liver King showed off a ‘Goddam* overdue’ donuts and pizza cheat meal of his own. Following Liver King’s steroid scandal last year, podcast host Joe Rogan suggested that The Rock now come clean about his alleged use.
RELATED: The Rock Shares 2:30 A.M. ‘Burning Superset Workout’: ‘Stretch & Elongate Those Lat Fibers’
Despite a non-stop schedule, The Rock doesn’t appear to be slowing down at his home gym Iron Paradise. When performing his latest lift, he encourages using lighter weights to avoid over-stressing the shoulders.
Published: 25 April, 2023 | 12:30 AM EDT
Chris Bumstead: “I Brought My PEDs Down & It Allowed Me to Have to Train Harder”
Classic Physique star Chris Bumstead revealed some surprising details about his 2023 Olympia preparations. In a recent The Raw U. Podcast, Bumstead shared that he decreased his performance-enhancing drug (PED) use, which has allowed him to train harder in the current off-season.
“I just enjoy training hard when I’m in it and getting strong, so luckily that hasn’t changed,” shared Bumstead.
Bumstead first claimed the Classic Physique Olympia title in 2019 and has continued to display improvements to his physique year after year. Last December, it was revealed that Bumstead would no longer be working alongside Open class standout Iain Valliere. With 12 weeks until the 2022 Mr. Olympia competition, the 28-year-old joined forces with Hany Rambod, who is known for his innovative FST-7 training program.
Cbum shared his shredding diet weeks before taking to the stage last year. Ultimately, his efforts paid off as he handily won another Classic Physique Olympia title. After taking a victory lap, Bumstead explained that he overcame adversity after posing on stage with a torn bicep.
In a recent Don’t Be Sour Podcast, the four-time champ took an honest look at his future in the sport. He said his fear of losing is what motivates him to stay on top. While there have been talks of his eventual retirement, Bumstead made it clear that he won’t consider the possibility until after winning another Olympia. To shed some light on his PED use and diet plan for his next title defense, he joined Brett Wilkin for an interview.
Chris Bumstead Says ‘He’s Lowered PED Usage’ And Still ‘Pushes Really Hard’
In a show of transparency, Bumstead said he’s ‘brought his PEDs down’ and it’s enabled him to push harder during training sessions.
“It’s honestly been the exact same to be completely transparent, I brought my PEDs down and it allowed me to have to train harder. When I do, if anything, it now gives me that three months after a show to really just relax and let my body recover because I’m not anxiously being like, ‘I need to be huge.’ So, I need every second I have, I’m like, I can take the time off, relax, get into it.”
“I’ve been able to lower my PED usage from when I was younger even and still push really hard and it just keeps me under my weight cap; I still have a few pounds to play with I’m not dying to make weight like some people.”
Bumstead believes his muscle density has improved and shared that his trainer Hany Rambod doesn’t want him to bulk to 265 pounds in the off-season anymore.
“But when I got my pro card as a heavyweight bodybuilder I weighed 219 pounds or something and now I’m on stage at 240, 239 – so it’s taken me that long to put on like 20 pounds of muscle and it doesn’t really show too much on my frame, because I have a big frame but when you see comparison shots my density has gotten a lot better. But this is the first year, and I am looking forward to this and I was speaking with Hany [Rambod] and he was like, ‘We are not getting you up to 265 anymore this year.’
Bumstead Reveals 2023 Olympia Plan, Says Hany Rambod Wants Him to Compete ‘Much Leaner’
Given Bumstead’s muscle maturity and size, Rambod believes it would be best to exit the off-season at around 255-258 pounds.
“That’s only 25 pounds over my weight cap at what I typically compete at but I still want to be less than that. You have the muscle maturity and the size, we’ll keep you at 255, 258 – like much leaner, but hopefully try and get the same amount of mass on and when you diet down it will be really easy for you to get really lean because you’re not coming from such a high body fat point. My body can put on body fat pretty easily. That’s the goal this year. I’m not happy about that because I don’t like eating,” Chris Bumstead said.
“I’m already just beginning my off-season now barely eating like over 4,000 calories and I’m like, ‘Oh man, fu** I got to eat again?’ You know, it’s already there. So that’s definitely a benefit of Classic Physique this year and it will be interesting to see how it goes, hopefully, it makes me come in the best condition I’ve ever come to because I can get there earlier and slowly lean into it instead of crushing myself at the end of a prep like I’ve had to in the past just to make that weight but it’s not really a big difference. My training has definitely gotten better. Something I’ve at least gotten better with at least YouTube and this is I can just turn it on and off in like seconds.”
With off-season preparations underway, Cbum has opened up about his nutrition in detail. Earlier this month, Bumstead checked in with fans at 253 pounds and showed off a 3,500-calorie meal plan. Additionally, he’s offered glimpses into his training with a recent back-building workout.
RELATED: Larry Wheels on Chris Bumstead & Move to Classic Physique: ‘My Coach Said I Can Be Competitive With Just TRT’
Bumstead will aim to make it five Classic Physique titles later this year at 2023 Olympia, where he’ll rematch the newly minted Arnold Classic champion Ramon Queiroz.
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 6:30 PM EDT
A Look Into the Incredible New Mat Fraser’s HWPO CrossFit Gym
Canadian-American CrossFit icon Mat Fraser has cemented his status as one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport. However, to achieve this Mat had to utilize some specific gym equipment and at one point decided to build his own gym. So, in a recent video posted on YouTube, social media fitness influencer Craig Richey of TeamRICHEY gave fans a look into Fraser’s incredible new and improved HWPO CrossFit Gym in Burlington, Vermont.
Mat Fraser grew up with a passion for fitness. He first started out with Olympic weightlifting, quickly becoming a junior national champion before transitioning to CrossFit in 2014. His potential was evident from the start, since he took silver in his 2014 CrossFit Games debut, falling short of four-time champ Rich Froning Jr. The next year, Fraser turned in an even stronger performance, but could not do enough to get gold ahead of Ben Smith. Fraser returned with a vengeance in 2016 and finally secured his first CrossFit title. He successfully defended the title four times in a row before moving on from professional competitions as the most accomplished men’s athlete in the sport.
In Jun. 2021, Fraser laid out the diet regimen he used to get in shape for the CrossFit contests throughout his career. He started the day with light foods such as yogurt, granola, and a cup of coffee and consumed a ton of carbs to stay energized for training. However, during his run, Fraser also battled a major back injury that put his athletic ambitions at risk. He covered this topic as well, opening up about how he overcame the hurdle and reached new heights.
Although Fraser retired years ago, he continues to train hard at his home gym to this day. So, not long after retiring, Mat crushed a brutal cardio workout while showing off his training facility in July 2021. Then, he smoked a heavy 540-lb deadlift to achieve a new PR. After some workouts, Fraser offered a tour of his 1,000 square feet home gym to the public. It consisted of several cardio machines, a custom rig, and more equipment needed for CrossFit training.
Due to everything that he accomplished in his career, Fraser was also frequently compared to other elite CrossFit athletes. So, a renowned endurance coach, Chris Hinshaw, gave his take on how Fraser lined up as a competitor against Froning, having coached both of them. Hinshaw lauded Fraser’s smart mindset in analyzing every competition and devising a game plan that fits his needs the best.
Mat Fraser also received some publicity after launching a book named after his signature phrase ‘Hard Work Pays Off,’ called HWPO: Train. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. Besides his life story, Fraser provided a range of workout routines, meal plans, and his expertise in fitness. In May 2022, he motivated members of a CrossFit-partnered sober community on getting sober with his life stories, thus revealing additional detail about his life. Fraser stated how he gave up his alcohol addiction and channeled his addictive personality in a positive manner.
As a coach, Fraser now offers his years of experience in the sport to budding contenders. His most notable success as a coach was guiding Mal O’Brien to silver at the 2022 NOBULL CrossFit Games. Mat then revealed a list of six contenders he took under his wing at the 2023 HWPO Club for the season last September.
A Look into the New HWPO CrossFit Gym of Mat Fraser
In a recent YouTube video, TeamRICHEY gave fans a look into the incredible new HWPO CrossFit Gym of Mat Fraser in Vermont.
The new facility covers 11,500 square feet in total with 6,500 square feet reserved for gym space and 5,000 square feet for office. It features a solid training floor, studio space for content creation, a kitchen, an athlete lounge for relaxing with a recovery zone, two ice barrels for cold therapy, and a sauna.
The gym area included several SkiERGs and BikeERGs which are crucial machines in CrossFit. There’s also a dedicated strength and conditioning zone with a 55-foot-long strip of gym turf for drills and sled pulls, along with a rig which is made up of two 15-foot-tall uprights. A balcony area was installed for the coaches to observe the athletes from a bird’s eye view.
“Basically just wanted to create the perfect space,” said Fraser.
“We are waiting on the new Rogue air runners. They’re just on back order. Bodybuilding is on the back corner there, cables, lat pull down, cable crossover, dumbbells, kettlebells.”
“We knew the space is a little bit bigger so if you’re snatching over on this side of the gym, we don’t want you lugging weight. So, every weight tree has one full complete competition set of weights. You grab your bars, grab your weights stack, and roll to wherever you want in the gym.”
“We haven’t hung or set up everything yet because we want to see where things are going to kind of live and where they will naturally flow best.”
Mat Fraser teamed up with Olympic weightlifting coaching members from Catalyst Athletics for his HWPO team last September. The staff will help the athletes, including, Mal O’Brien, Jayson Hopper, and Katrin Davíðsdóttir improve their performance for CrossFit competitions. They now also have the adequate facilities to conduct all the programs needed in coaching some future CrossFit champions.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 4:59 PM EDT
Bodybuilding Legend Ronnie Coleman Selling House for $495K After 26-Year Residence
Bodybuilding icon Ronnie Coleman is ready for a housing upgrade. In a recent Instagram post, Coleman revealed that he’s selling his Arlington, Texas residence valued at $495,000 following requests from his wife for a bigger home.
During the 2000s, Coleman dominated at the top of the Men’s Open division with unparalleled mass and conditioning. He competed against a number of high-profile threats like four-time Arnold Classic winner Flex Wheeler, rival Jay Cutler, and Kevin Levrone. Before calling it a career, Coleman captured eight Mr. Olympia titles, an all-time record he shares with Lee Haney.
Even though he’s long stepped away from competing, Coleman follows the sport closely. Looking at the Men’s Open landscape this year, ‘The King’ recently predicted that Derek Lunsford will defeat the reigning champion Hadi Choopan when they meet in Orlando, Florida for 2023 Mr. Olympia.
In retirement, Coleman has suffered from several health issues but still trains with discipline. He shows off workouts to motivate his fanbase and also runs a popular YouTube channel with nearly 1.7 million subscribers. With family life taking center stage for Coleman, the 58-year-old decided to list his house in Arlington, Texas.
Ronnie Coleman Selling Texas Home for Almost Half-Million After 26 Years
According to the American real estate company Zillow, Coleman’s house is going for $495,000.
Check out Coleman’s statement below:
“After 26 years in my lovely home, I am finally selling it to move into a bigger house for my bigger family. I’m hoping someone else falls in love with it the way I fell in love with it. I had planned to stay forever but my wife wanted a bigger house for our growing girls. You know what they say, “Happy wife Happy life” plus the time is now. This house has the best gym ever and the best living accommodations ever. We just installed a brand new Jacuzzi that the girls adore. So come on out for a visit if someone wants to purchase a little bit of history. The trophy case is definitely off the chain and one of the highlights of this resident.” Ronnie Coleman wrote.
Coleman’s house is a three-bathroom, five-bedroom with a home gym installed. While competing actively, Coleman utilized the local Metroflex Gym for heavier training sessions. Coleman often used his home gym for cardio at his leisure.
RELATED: Ronnie Coleman: ‘Flex Wheeler Is Pretty Much the Reason Why I First Won The Olympia’
As far as his health is concerned, Coleman continues to show promise. In a recent interview with Giles Thomas, Coleman explained how stem cell treatments have saved his life. He hopes the injections every four months will allow him to one day walk again unassisted.
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 1:46 PM EDT
2023 Vancouver Island Showdown Pro Results and Scorecards
The 2023 Vancouver Island Show took place this weekend (April 23) in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and featured three bodybuilding divisions: Women’s Bodybuilding, Wellness, and Women’s Physique. This show served as a qualifier for the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition.
Unlike last year, there are fewer months to qualify for the Olympia contest. Bodybuilders have until October 9 to earn a respective invite. While the point system was used in 2022, it’s been removed; therefore, athletes must win a pro show for guaranteed passage to the sport’s biggest show of the year.
The top three finishers from last year’s Olympia (2022) in the Women’s Physique, Wellness, and Women’s Bodybuilding divisions are automatically invited back to this year’s edition of the event. Fans have already named a few Women’s Bodybuilding favorites for this weekend. Sherry Priami always brings a shredded physique and if she compliments her look with added size, she has a shot at gold. In addition, fans expect action from contenders Keisha Oliver and Julie Whitesel.
2023 Vancouver Island Show Winners
Women’s Bodybuilding: Sherry Priami
Women’s Physique: Anne-Lorraine Mohn
Wellness: Kassandra Gillis
2023 Vancouver Island Show Results
Women’s Bodybuilding
Winner — Sherry Priami
Second Place — Julia Whitesel
Third Place — Melina Perron
Fourth Place — Keisha Oliver
Fifth Place — Tananarive Efuru Huie
Sixth Place — Andrea Saurer
Seventh Place — Shea Menchaca
Eighth Place — Marcela Venegas Morales
Women’s Physique
Winner — Anne-Lorraine Mohn
Second Place — Emilija Martic
Third Place — Michele Steeves
Fourth Place — Lisa Kudrey
Fifth Place — Alejandra Chacon Velazquez
Wellness
Winner — Kassandra Gillis
Second Place — Jennifer Zollars
Third Place — Nicollette Burns
2023 Vancouver Island Show Scorecards
Fitness Volt congratulates the winners!
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 1:03 PM EDT
Jay Cutler, Milos Sarcev Compare Eras: ‘Dorian Yates/Ronnie Coleman Would Be Super Competitive Today’
Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler still follows the sport closely since retirement in 2013. In a recent Cutler Cast episode, Cutler joined Milos Sarcev to break down how every former Mr. Olympia winner would fare against today’s Open class.
While building a successful career in the IFBB Pro League, Cutler reached the top of the sport in 2006 after dethroning the eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman. Inspired by his rival’s training practices, Cutler revealed some of the sacrifices it took to catch up with Coleman. He utilized high-volume training and ate 140 egg whites a day to maintain his Olympia-caliber physique.
Given the recent changes to the Men’s Open division, Cutler believes the category is moving back into an era similar to 90s bodybuilding. He supported the claim by pointing to the success Samson Dauda and Andrew Jacked enjoyed at the 35th annual Arnold Classic, where shape and beauty prevailed against mass and size.
In their latest endeavor, Cutler and Sarcev took a closer look at all former Mr. Olympias, and whether or not they would be competitive against today’s crop of Open talent.
Jay Cutler & Milos Sarcev Share Opinions on How Former Mr. Olympias Would Fare Today
Before assessing each Mr. Olympia winner, Sarcev touched on Lou Ferrigno’s chances of success.
“I was there in ’92 [for Lou Ferrigno] and he was just not competitive. And then, they thought maybe in ’93 he was going to do better but he didn’t. Then, finally, in ’94 they told him to do the Masters you know, he had the good enough condition and size but not good enough for the 90s. I doubt [he would do better today]. It’s still – proportionally when you think, width x-frame, conditioning, eh.”
Despite the dominance of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sarcev isn’t convinced he’d shine on today’s Olympia stage. However, they both agreed Coleman and Dorian Yates would be ‘super competitive’ if they contended in the current era.
“Well, listen, he [Arnold Schwarzenegger] was so dominant back in the day right, but I think even you mentioned, I watched your Jay Walk the other day and there was a year maybe where Sergio could have beaten him. In 1972 in Germany, yeah,” Milos Sarcev said.
“Arnold, he defended his title against no one at one point right?” says Jay Cutler.
“Sergio Oliva, if he would come in crazy shredded condition that he never probably knew back in the day how to do it, but that physique, shredded and dry would be super competitive in any era including now,” Sarcev explained.
“We know Dorian Yates and Ronnie Coleman these guys would all be competitive right,” said Cutler.
“After Dorian it was Ronnie, Ronnie at his best, which I think is ’98, but ’98, ’99, 2001 Arnold Classic, 2003 Olympia – yeah he would be super competitive. Yeah [he’d win], okay, yeah,” Sarcev confirms.
Sarcev believes three-time Mr. Olympia Sergio Oliva and eight-time champ Lee Haney would have held their own against today’s Open talent as well. Though, he dismissed the chances of Larry Scott, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbo, Frank Zane, Chris Dickerson, and Samir Bannout.
“Sergio Oliva would be, Larry Scott wouldn’t, of course. Sergio Oliva would, Arnold — I don’t think he’d be competitive. Honestly, we all love Arnold he did the most for the sport. Physique-wise, if you don’t know the name and you see his physique, he wouldn’t be in the top. Next was Franco Columbo, after him, he wouldn’t be competitive. Frank Zane, unfortunately, I love Frank, he was my idol, but he was not big enough. He would be very good in Classic Physique of course, but not in the Open.
Then, in 1980, Arnold again, ’81, again Columbo, ’82 was Chris Dickerson, he wouldn’t be available. Then, ’83, Samir Bannout, no, he wouldn’t be – he was great, we love his physique but that was for that era. Then comes Lee Haney, Lee Haney would be competitive. I do believe so. It’s amazing when you actually look at Lee Haney.”
Additionally, Sarcev listed Cutler, Dexter Jackson, and Phil Heath as former Mr. Olympias who could stand their ground against today’s Open lineup.
“I loved your 2001 Olympia, your 2001 Iron Man, I was absolutely blown away. I was sitting next to Chris Aceto, you created the illusion of being 280 pounds full shredded dry,” Sarcev tells Cutler.
“Dexter Jackson, he would be very competitive,” Cutler said. “Phil Heath.”
“Phil Heath would be super competitive, especially,” Sarcev agreed. “You [Cutler] and Phil Heath at your best?”
“We never were at our best, I mean obviously I won the battles at my best, I mean I was never at my best when I competed against him when he came into his own right,” Cutler shared. “If he was here he’d say he wins, If I’m here I’d say I win.”
“Phil Heath at his best could win the title of course,” Sarcev added. “Legs [on Brandon Curry] need to come up. If his legs come up, he was beating Hadi Choopan every time.”
Before ending the discussion, Sarcev and Cutler agreed Brandon Curry and Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay still had the potential for redemption.
“Big Ramy, he came after Brandon.”
“I still think he can come back and be competitive,” says Jay Cutler.
“I think so too. Especially the pictures from Instagram on Saturday at the Arnold Classic, he looked – that was impressive. Friday I didn’t get exactly that impression. He was still not the best Ramy but questionably Saturday, maybe the best Ramy I’ve seen. Okay, minus arms, he had the better arms before and maybe back also.”
The last time a popular bodybuilder compared eras was four-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead. In a recent Full Send Podcast, Cbum was asked how a battle with Arnold Schwarzenegger would play out. If Schwarzenegger faced him at the 2022 Olympia contest, Cbum said he would have defeated the bodybuilding icon.
RELATED: Jay Cutler Talks Mike Mentzer Quitting After losing to Arnold Schwarzenegger at 1980 Mr. Olympia
While they don’t believe every former Mr. Olympia could push into the first call-out, Cutler and Sarcev are confident a handful would likely assert themselves as Olympia title contenders in the modern era.
Watch the full video below:
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 12:05 PM EDT
Powerlifter Dan Bell Suffers Injury After a Massive 425-kg (937-lb) Raw Squat
This year was supposed to be a real delight for all powerlifting fans, as Dan Bell and Hafthor Bjornsson both had goals to set new World Records and battle against each other. However, the situation has quickly changed for the worse, as both men injured themselves. Dan’s injury is the more recent one, having suffered it at the 2023 USA-UA Pioneer on the Beach and revealed it just a few days ago on Instagram.
Dan Bell injured himself while performing a 425-kilogram (937-pound) squat on his third attempt. He got stuck in the middle of the lift, but somehow managed to push through. Although it looked like it was time to celebrate, Dan immediately showed signs of injury, barely being able to walk out of the squat rack.
“This one hurt. Felt like my left glute was getting torn in half then following the leg simply locked up and wouldn’t work. It was wild.”
Dan Bell tried to rest for some time in the hopes that his injury was just a small tweak of some sorts. However, after a few days it only got worse.
“Woke up Monday 4/17 unable to feel or move my toes. Absolutely wild a week after.”
However, Dan Bell took a positive approach to this, hoping to find out what the injury is and recover in the best way possible. After visiting two different hospitals, he finally found out the extent of his injuries.
“Moving forward with morphine and 2 different hospitals finding one of the largest MRI machines in Florida to find out my spine and 6 bulging discs have seen better days.”
Dan Bell’s recovery process has begun and he wants to avoid surgery if possible. However, his future is currently very uncertain.
“Already in the process of working things out and avoiding surgery at all costs… Got to be honest the future is up in the air. Just one day at a time.”
Watch the squat here:
Related: Hafthor Bjornsson and Dan Bell Lock Out 395-kg (870.8-lb) Raw Deadlifts At 2023 Arnold Sports Festival
Dan Bell has experienced some injuries throughout his career, but he has always managed to come back better than he was. Thus, he built an incredible resume, appearing in 36 sanctioned competitions and winning 27 of them. Alongside that, Dan has claimed a number of World Records as well.
Dan Bell’s Raw Competition PRs
Squat: 455 kilograms (1,003.1 pounds) — (2020 RPS Sarasota Showdown)
Bench Press: 275 kilograms (606.2 pounds) — (2021 WRPF Kern US Open)
Deadlift: 412.5 kilograms (909.4 pounds) — (2022 APF Showdown at the Storm)
Total: 1,127.5 kilograms (2,485.7 pounds) — (2020 RPS Sarasota Showdown)
Dan Bell’s Competition History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Wraps
1113.3
606.3
1113.3
2607
606.47
Raw
1003.1
584.2
1003.1
2485.7
583.1
Multi-ply
1102.3
683.4
1102.3
2667.6
621.54
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF
2022-09-03
Clash on the Columbia
Open
2513.3
586.74
Location
USA-WA
Competition
Clash on the Columbia
Division
Open
Age
35
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
391.3
Squat
948
1014.1
1047.2
1047.2
Bench
529.1
562.2
584.2
584.2
Deadlift
837.8
881.8
881.8
1
USPA
2022-07-30
Iron Knightmare 4
Open
2314.9
541.24
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Iron Knightmare 4
Division
Open
Age
35
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
389
Squat
749.6
-859.8
903.9
931.5
931.5
Bench
501.6
551.2
-584.2
551.2
Deadlift
749.6
804.7
859.8
859.8
GLP
105.22
1
RPS
2022-06-18
Showcase Super Classic 2
Pro Open
2446.4
568.3
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Showcase Super Classic 2
Division
Pro Open
Age
35
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
399.1
Squat
1002.8
Bench
584.1
Deadlift
859.6
1
APF
2022-05-28
Showdown at the Storm
M_OR_APF
909.4
211.68
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Showdown at the Storm
Division
M_OR_APF
Age
35
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
395.9
Deadlift
837.8
881.8
909.4
909.4
1
UPA
2022-03-26
Ghost Strong Pro-Am
MOR
2474.7
574.74
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Ghost Strong Pro-Am
Division
MOR
Age
35
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
399.5
Squat
1025.1
1074.8
-1107.8
1074.8
Bench
551.2
-584.2
-584.2
551.2
Deadlift
848.8
848.8
1
WRPF
2022-02-12
Ghost Clash
Open
2502.2
584.67
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Ghost Clash
Division
Open
Age
35
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
390
Squat
1003.1
1058.2
1080.3
1080.3
Bench
529.1
562.2
-573.2
562.2
Deadlift
804.7
837.8
859.8
859.8
1
WRPF
2021-04-24
Kern US Open
Open
2579.4
603.92
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
34
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
386.9
Squat
1025.1
1069.2
1113.3
1113.3
Bench
573.2
600.8
606.3
606.3
Deadlift
859.8
-903.9
-903.9
859.8
1
WRPF
2021-02-20
Hybrid Showdown III
Open
2607
606.47
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Showdown III
Division
Open
Age
34
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
396.8
Squat
1025.1
1074.8
1102.3
1102.3
Bench
551.2
589.7
600.8
600.8
Deadlift
859.8
-903.9
903.9
903.9
1
WRPF
2020-09-26
The Showdown
Open
2403
562.14
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Showdown
Division
Open
Age
34
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
388.2
Squat
925.9
970
-1014.1
970
Bench
551.2
584.2
-600.8
584.2
Deadlift
848.8
-898.4
848.8
GLP
109.3
1
APF
2020-07-25
Showdown at the Storm
M_OEM_APF
2667.6
621.54
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Showdown at the Storm
Division
M_OEM_APF
Age
33
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
308.6
Weight
394.4
Squat
1014.1
1102.3
-1201.5
1102.3
Bench
683.4
-749.6
683.4
Deadlift
826.7
881.8
881.8
1
USPA
2020-07-11
Pioneer Open
Open
2491.2
581.27
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Pioneer Open
Division
Open
Age
33
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
392.2
Squat
925.9
1003.1
-1041.7
1003.1
Bench
551.2
584.2
584.2
Deadlift
804.7
854.3
903.9
903.9
1
RPS
2020-02-29
Sarasota Showdown
Pro Open
2485.7
583.1
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Sarasota Showdown
Division
Pro Open
Age
33
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
384
Squat
1003.1
Bench
578.7
Deadlift
903.9
GLP
113.47
1
WRPF
2019-11-23
American Barbell Club Open
Open
2518.8
583.62
Location
USA-FL
Competition
American Barbell Club Open
Division
Open
Age
33
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
403.2
Squat
1003.1
1036.2
1063.7
1063.7
Bench
551.2
573.2
-584.2
573.2
Deadlift
837.8
-881.8
881.8
881.8
2
USPA
2019-08-03
The Tribute
Open
2292.8
537.13
Location
USA-TX
Competition
The Tribute
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
386
Squat
903.9
Bench
551.2
Deadlift
837.8
4
SPF
2018-11-10
Slingshot Record Breakers
Open
2281.8
533.37
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Slingshot Record Breakers
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Wraps
Class
242.5
Weight
389.4
Squat
903.9
-1003.1
-1003.1
903.9
Bench
-518.1
573.2
-600.8
573.2
Deadlift
804.7
-859.8
804.7
1
UPA
2018-04-21
National Championships
MOR
2458.2
579.54
Location
USA-IA
Competition
National Championships
Division
MOR
Age
31
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
376.5
Squat
-1003.1
1003.1
1025.1
1025.1
Bench
523.6
551.2
-562.2
551.2
Deadlift
837.8
881.8
-903.9
881.8
1
UPA
2017-12-02
War of the Demigods
MOR
2243.2
535.39
Location
USA-IL
Competition
War of the Demigods
Division
MOR
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
359.1
Squat
854.3
881.8
-903.9
881.8
Bench
501.6
523.6
523.6
Deadlift
804.7
837.8
837.8
GLP
104.78
3
ProRaw
2017-10-15
Big Dogs 2
M-OR
2375.5
563.66
Location
Australia-VIC
Competition
Big Dogs 2
Division
M-OR
Age
31
Equipment
Wraps
Weight
367.3
Squat
881.8
981.1
-1014.1
981.1
Bench
501.6
523.6
540.1
540.1
Deadlift
804.7
854.3
-903.9
854.3
1
UPA
2017-07-22
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
MOR
2403
565.11
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
Division
MOR
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
380.3
Squat
959
-1014.1
1014.1
1014.1
Bench
501.6
529.1
540.1
540.1
Deadlift
804.7
848.8
848.8
1
UPA
2017-01-22
Raw Powerlifting Championship
MOR
2375.5
562.09
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Raw Powerlifting Championship
Division
MOR
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
371.3
Squat
881.8
959
1008.6
1008.6
Bench
501.6
523.6
-540.1
523.6
Deadlift
-804.7
843.3
-870.8
843.3
1
UPA
2016-07-16
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
MOR
2116.4
506.51
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
Division
MOR
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
355.4
Squat
854.3
-914.9
-920.4
854.3
Bench
474
512.6
-534.6
512.6
Deadlift
749.6
749.6
DQ
RPS
2016-04-23
US Open
Pro Open
Location
USA-CA
Competition
US Open
Division
Pro Open
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
353
Bench
529.1
Deadlift
821.2
1
UPA
2016-04-16
Powerlifting Nationals
MOR
2270.8
547.02
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Powerlifting Nationals
Division
MOR
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
346.6
Squat
848.8
903.9
942.5
942.5
Bench
501.6
523.6
-534.6
523.6
Deadlift
804.7
-837.8
-837.8
804.7
GLP
107.43
1
UPA
2016-01-24
Raw Powerlifting Championship
MOR
2303.8
562.16
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Raw Powerlifting Championship
Division
MOR
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
330.3
Squat
881.8
948
981.1
981.1
Bench
474
501.6
512.6
512.6
Deadlift
744.1
810.2
-826.7
810.2
3
SPF
2016-01-16
No Retreat No Surrender
Open
2200
532.76
Location
USA
Competition
No Retreat No Surrender
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
339.8
Squat
900
Bench
500
Deadlift
800
1
UPA
2015-12-05
War of the Demigods
MOR
2155
536.34
Location
USA-IL
Competition
War of the Demigods
Division
MOR
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
307.3
Squat
749.5
804.7
854.3
854.3
Bench
440.9
485
496
496
Deadlift
749.5
804.7
804.7
GLP
106.74
2
UPA
2015-11-14
Power Weekend
MOR
2221.2
552.35
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Power Weekend
Division
MOR
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
308.2
Squat
826.7
881.8
931.5
931.5
Bench
440.9
474
-501.6
474
Deadlift
749.6
815.7
-826.7
815.7
1
WUAP
2015-10-08
World Championships
Open
1967.6
480.38
Location
USA-IL
Competition
World Championships
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
329.6
Squat
777.1
-826.7
-832.2
777.1
Bench
418.9
440.9
-463
440.9
Deadlift
705.5
749.6
-815.7
749.6
2
UPA
2015-04-18
Powerlifting National Championship
MOR
2121.9
530.16
Location
USA
Competition
Powerlifting National Championship
Division
MOR
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
303.1
Squat
837.8
881.8
-925.9
881.8
Bench
457.5
-485
-501.6
457.5
Deadlift
749.6
782.6
-815.7
782.6
1
RUPC
2015-02-07
Raw Unity VIII
M-HW
2210.1
552.43
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Raw Unity VIII
Division
M-HW
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
302.7
Squat
815.7
881.8
914.9
914.9
Bench
440.9
-474
485
485
Deadlift
716.5
771.6
810.2
810.2
1
IPA
2014-10-18
Ohio Grand Prix
Pro Open
2200
547.19
Location
USA-OH
Competition
Ohio Grand Prix
Division
Pro Open
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
308
Squat
900
Bench
495
Deadlift
805
1
UPA
2014-07-19
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
MOR
2039.3
507.33
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Iron Battle on the Mississippi
Division
MOR
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
307.8
Squat
788.2
-832.2
-854.3
788.2
Bench
440.9
474
-501.6
474
Deadlift
711
749.6
777.1
777.1
1
WUAP-USA
2014-06-28
National Powerlifting and Benchpress Championships
Open
2022.7
504.75
Location
USA-IL
Competition
National Powerlifting and Benchpress Championships
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
304.5
Squat
788.2
815.7
-837.8
815.7
Bench
424.4
451.9
474
474
Deadlift
705.5
733
-749.6
733
2
UPA
2014-02-15
Powerlifting & Bench Press National Chamionships
MOR
1907
476.16
Location
USA-IA
Competition
Powerlifting & Bench Press National Chamionships
Division
MOR
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
303.8
Squat
650.4
705.5
749.6
749.6
Bench
380.3
413.4
440.9
440.9
Deadlift
683.4
716.5
-749.6
716.5
DQ
APF
2005-03-12
Illinois State Meet
M_TCR_3_APF
Location
USA-IL
Competition
Illinois State Meet
Division
M_TCR_3_APF
Age
18
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Squat
451.9
-600.8
-617.3
451.9
Bench
319.7
352.7
-402.3
352.7
Deadlift
-501.6
-600.8
-600.8
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Any injuries around the spine are extremely risky and complicated. So, Dan Bell definitely needs to take his time and make sure that he is healed properly before coming back to the sport. Luckily, Bell is experienced enough to avoid making any mistakes, which should be good enough to see him back on the stage in the future.
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 11:06 AM EDT
Exclusive: Mitchell Hooper Reveals How Brian Shaw, Tom Stoltman, & Licis inspired Him To Win The 2023 WSM
The 2023 World’s Strongest Man contest took place on April 19-23, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and saw Mitchell Hooper win. Hooper thus became the first Canadian ever to win the title with an amazing display in both qualifying and finals stages. Aged 27-years-old, Hooper is also very young and relatively inexperienced in the sport of Strongman.
However, that did not stop him from enduring a difficult training regimen since he has a motto that he lives by. In addition, Hooper enjoys doing Strongman, especially having found inspiration in the likes of Tom Stoltman, Martins Licis, and Brian Shaw.
Following the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition, Mitchell Hooper sat down to give us an exclusive interview about his new achievement, the training leading up to it, his inspiration, as well as future goals.
Our Exclusive Interview with Mitchell Hooper
Mitchell Hooper (Todd Burandt / World’s Strongest Man)
Mitchell Hooper explained that he didn’t do anything special to win the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition. He just showed up every day and put in the work during training sessions, performing well enough to come out on top.
Fitness Volt: What do you attribute your success to, and how have you prepared for this competition?
Mitchell Hooper: “Being good enough every day. None of my training sessions look particularly astonishing. I don’t do anything insane on a given day, but I don’t miss a day. My training motto is Good Enough Every Day.”
We spoke to Mitchell Hooper, the winner of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition, to get his perspective on the challenges he faced during the tournament. Despite making many of the events seem effortless, we were curious to know what he found to be the most difficult aspect of the competition.
Fitness Volt: Which event in the World’s Strongest Man competition did you find the most challenging?
Hooper: “It was Max Dumbbell. Max Dumbbell is a weakness of mine. I came, I believe ninth out of ten in Rogue (Invitational) and that was four or five months ago… I would say max dumbbell and that is when I got most excited.”
The fans were definitely impressed by Mitchell Hooper’s performance in the Max Dumbbell, but he put up one of the most epic displays ever in another event. That was the Reign Shield Carry, the first event of the finals. At one point in the event, it looked like Hooper was completely exhausted, but he kept carrying the shield with every last ounce of strength he had left. In the end, Hooper won the event and took max points.
Fitness Volt: You had shown incredible resilience and put up one of the most epic performances in the Shield Carry event against Tom Stoltman. So, many fans believe that this largely influenced the remainder of the finals. What do you think about it, and how did it feel to cross the final few feet?
Hooper: “Winning the first event allows you to know what to do for the rest of the competition… It set it up really well and I think it was a statement to kick off the finals.”
Despite professionally competing for under one year, Mitchell Hooper has already had the experience of competing with all of the greatest Strongmen in the world. So, we asked him if anyone surprised him and if he found any athlete inspirational.
Fitness Volt: You’ve faced tough competition from some of the strongest athletes in the world. Who has been your biggest rival or inspiration, and why?
Hooper: “I am inspired by so many of the guys. I am inspired by Tom and his journey to become the strongest man in the world. Martins, Martins and I talk quite a lot. Brian and his four wins and everything he does outside of the sport as well. It is really an amalgamation of a lot of people and we are not short of people to be inspired by in the Strongman world.”
Obviously, finishing day one of the 2023 WSM finals at the top of the leaderboards results in some very powerful feelings. However, Hooper revealed that he did not think of himself as the winner at that point. Instead, he remained focused until the final moments of the competition.
Mitchell Hooper (Credit: Todd Burandt / World’s Strongest Man)
Fitness Volt: Earlier this year, you claimed the 2023 Arnold Strongman Classic title in March. How did that victory influence your preparation and mindset for the World’s Strongest Man event?
Hooper: “You have to go prove yourself every single event and it was the same attitude when I started winning the events in the finals. You can’t celebrate before everything is over.”
Each Strongman athlete has their own unique motivation for pursuing the sport, whether it be for the glory, the accolades, or personal fulfillment. Mitchell Hooper recently shared his personal goals and aspirations within the Strongman community.
Fitness Volt: How do you see the future of strongman, and what role do you hope to play in its growth?
Hooper: “I hope to grow it at the community level as much as possible. I think it is a great way for people to get moving… The gym can be a daunting place, but the Strongman community is one of the most welcoming communities that I have been a part of.”
Related: 4x WSM Brian Shaw Completes His Final World’s Strongest Man Appearance; An End Of An Era
Mitchell Hooper 2023 WSM Finals Performances
Mitchell Hooper opened up the qualifying stage of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man perfectly, winning all three events of day one. Then moving on to day two of the qualifying, Hooper needed to do the bare minimum to advance to the finals. However, he wanted to put on a show for the fans and thus gave his all on day two as well. Two events were on the schedule, so Mitchell ended up winning Conan’s Wheel and placing second in the Kettlebell Toss event.
Mitchell Hooper (Todd Burandt / World’s Strongest Man)
Qualifying
Loading Race: First-Place
Deadlift Machine: First-Place
Log Ladder: First-Place
Conan’s Wheel: First-Place
Kettlebell Toss: Second-Place
After one rest day, Mitchell Hooper came back fully energized for the finals. He opened up the finals similar to the qualifying, winning the Reign Shield Carry and Knaack Deadlift event on day one. However, he placed sixth in the Fingal’s Fingers and lost a lot of his lead over Tom Stoltman and Oleksii Novikov.
On day two of the finals, Mitchell Hooper once again won the first two events, thus needing just a few points on the final event. He ended up getting those points and claiming the title. Fun fact, Hooper is the first man to win four events in the finals of the World’s Strongest Man competition since the 6-event format was introduced.
Finals
Reign Shield Carry: First-Place
Knaack Deadlift: First-Place
Fingal’s Fingers: Sixth-Place
Max Dumbbell: Tied-First
Bus Pull: First-Place
Atlas Stones: Second-Place
Mitchell Hooper (Todd Burandt / World’s Strongest Man)
It is incredible to think that Mitchell Hooper has already become this big of a figure in Strongman despite not competing for even one full year. However, he has taken part in 10 International competitions, winning five of them, including the 2023 WSM and 2023 Arnold Strongman Classic.
Mitchell Hooper will continue pushing himself, as there are some more big titles for him to win. In addition, judging by his performances at the 2023 WSM, Hooper will end up with a plethora of World Records in a few years. So, there is still a lot to look forward to.
Discover comprehensive coverage of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition at our WSM coverage hub, featuring exclusive interviews, final results, event recaps and in-depth analysis: FitnessVolt.com/wsm
Published: 24 April, 2023 | 10:28 AM EDT