Sports often teach lessons of perseverance and dedication, but this year’s Strongman contenders taught fans something more than that. The power to push through adversities was a common theme this year. Consecutive winner Mitchell Hooper, comeback king Hafthor Bjornsson, and underdog star Lucas Hatton all proved their worth. The official Instagram account of Arnold Sports dedicated a post to these champions.
Hooper has been the reigning champion of the year and an upcoming star amongst the Strongmen. His mock rivalry with Bjornsson has fans hyped up to watch more of their camaraderie on and off-stage. Meanwhile, at the UK event, Hatton surprised everyone when he stood shoulder-to-shoulder in a tie with Hooper at one of the rounds. But their achievements don’t stop there.
Mitchell Hooper
Since his golden strike at the World’s Strongest Man in 2023, Hooper has been on a roll, crushing through events to win them. He went on to clinch the titles at both the Arnold Strongman Classic events in Ohio and the UK. He’s also the Rogue Invitational champion and a people’s favorite.
With his constant antics on social media and a softer side with his newborn daughter, fans have been hyping up the ‘Moose’ through different championships. What set him apart this year, however, was his grit to participate and win. He tore his hamstring last year at the Shaw Classic and still went on to train and win, which instantly inspired people.
Hafthor Bjornsson
The GOAT of the sport took a long hiatus and tried various sports before returning to his first love. Bjornsson put Iceland on the Strongman map with his insane strength and ability to course through some of the most physically demanding challenges. Rightly dubbed ‘The Mountain’, he withstood various hurdles to return to the stage at both the Arnold Strongman Classic championships. And while he barely missed the title, he stunned fans with his smooth and easy lifting of 1000 lbs and more.
Bjornsson’s achievement had a deeper meaning to it. He suffered from the worst injury of his career in early 2023, barely a year before getting back on stage. He tore his pec while attempting a world record at squatting and, unfortunately, had to go through two surgeries before getting a clean chit. Needless to say, he deserved the title of GOAT.
Lucas Hatton
Hatton emerged as a surprise at the Arnold Strongman Classic UK. He had previously won the title of America’s Strongest Man 2023 and was pumped up to take over the giants this season. Where a truckload of fans had been rooting for Hooper or Bjornsson in the UK, Hatton’s sheer strength drew surprised fans in support.
His first impression turned out to be stellar when he got to tie with Hooper at the Austrian Oak challenge. Both men performed three reps each with a 430 lbs log, thus sharing the first position.
This year’s Arnold Strongman Classic has churned out some of the most dedicated and passionate athletes. These players have earnestly competed in the sport while also keeping the sportsman spirit alive. That’s why watching them compete is always a sight to behold.
