Laurence ‘Big Loz’ Shahlaei, a prominent figure in the Strongman community, has shed light on the colossal size of top athletes in the sport. In a recent YouTube video, he unveiled the Top 20 Heaviest competitors ever to grace the World’s Strongest Man competition. This ranking provides a fascinating glimpse into the sheer massiveness of these individuals who dominate the Strongman arena.

Size isn’t just a characteristic in Strongman; it’s a critical determinant of success. Athletes must navigate the immense pressure of handling colossal weights, making their physical dimensions a defining factor. Shahlaei’s compilation underscores the significance of size in Strongman, captivating audiences and enthusiasts alike.

The World’s Strongest Man competition serves as a veritable stage for showcasing the prowess of elite Strongman athletes. Through Shahlaei’s analysis, viewers gain insights into the weights of these formidable competitors at the time of the event. Such revelations offer a deeper understanding of the challenges these athletes face in their pursuit of glory.

While many recognize the physical demands of Strongman, Shahlaei’s breakdown adds a new layer of appreciation for the sport. By quantifying the size of these athletes, he highlights the extraordinary feats of strength achieved on the world stage.

Top 20 Heaviest World’s Strongest Man Unveiled byLaurence ‘Big Loz’ Shahlaei

20. Zydrunas ‘Big Z’ Savickas — 397 Lbs (180 kgs)

Zydrunas Savickas, a towering figure in Strongman history, ranks 20th in weight among WSM competitors, surprising many. Despite this, he’s famed for clinching four WSM titles and notching 82 International victories. Additionally, he boasts 17 golds in Nationals, solidifying his place in the sport’s pantheon.

“The Lithuanian legend stands at 6 feet 3 inches tall and his heaviest weight listed at the WSM was 397 pounds (180 kilograms).”

19. Mika Törrö — 397 Lbs (180 kgs)

Mika Torro, who participated in the 2022 WSM, finished fifth in his group, marking his sole appearance. Despite this, he boasts an impressive 45 International showings and has clinched Finland’s Strongest Man title multiple times.

“Also weighing in at 397 pounds (180 kilograms) and standing at 6 feet 9 inches is Finnish athlete Mika Törrö.”

18. Mike Jenkins — 400 Lbs (181.4 kgs)

In his brief but impactful Strongman career, Mike Jenkins graced the WSM stage thrice. His most notable performance occurred in 2013, securing a commendable fourth place. Additionally, he reached the finals in 2012, securing fifth place, and in 2011, claiming the eighth spot. Notably, Jenkins triumphed in the 2012 Arnold Strongman Classic. Sadly, his untimely demise occurred in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of strength and resilience.

“He stood at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighed 400 pounds (181.4 kilograms).”

17. Terry Hollands — 400 Lbs (181.4 kgs)

Terry Hollands, a stalwart in Strongman circles for over 15 years, boasts an impressive resume. With 89 International and 12 National competitions under his belt, he’s a seasoned veteran. Making 15 appearances at the WSM, he reached the finals nine times. His podium finishes include third place in 2011 and 2007. Despite his imposing physique in his Strongman days, Hollands underwent a remarkable transformation post-retirement.

“Also standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 400 pounds (181.4 kilograms) is British superstar Terry Hollands.”

16. Torfi Ólafsson — 403 Lbs(183 kgs)

Torfi Ólafsson’s Strongman journey spanned from 1995 to 2011, marked by 20 International appearances. While gold eluded him, his event showings were noteworthy. Participating in five WSM contests, he notably clinched fourth place in 1997.

“Torfi Ólafsson stood at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches tall and weighed 403 pounds (183 kilograms).”

15. O.D. Wilson — 406 Lbs (184 kgs)

O.D Wilson’s brief two-year stint in professional Strongman competition solidified his status among the elite. Despite lacking international titles, he showcased remarkable prowess across nine appearances. Notably, Wilson secured second place at the 1990 World’s Strongest Man competition, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history.

“At number 15 is ‘The American Nightmare’, O.D. Wilson. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 406 pounds (184 kilograms),”

14. Tom Stoltman — 408 Lbs (185 kgs)

Tom Stoltman, despite being in his early thirties, is already hailed as one of the greatest Strongmen ever. His weight gain over the years has coincided with increasingly impressive results. Boasting the title of 3-time WSM Champion, Stoltman sets his sights on matching or surpassing Mariusz Pudzianowski’s record of six victories.

“In the 14th spot is none other than ‘The Albatros’ Tom Stoltman, standing at 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 408 pounds (184 kilograms).”

13. Joe Onosai — 410 Lbs (186 Kgs)

Joe Onosai’s Strongman career spanned the 1990s and the early 2000s, marked by 12 International appearances. Notably, he competed in the World’s Strongest Man four times, achieving his highest placing of 7th in 1994.

“At 13, we got the only World’s Strongest Man competitor from Samoa, Joe Onosai. Joe is 6 feet 4 inches, and at his peak, he weighed 410 pounds (186 kilograms).”

12. Eddie Hall — 410 Lbs (186 kgs)

Eddie Hall, the 2016 World’s Strongest Man and the pioneer of the 500-kilogram deadlift, is a renowned figure in Strongman circles. With 23 International and 8 National competitions under his belt, he boasts nine victories. At the WSM, his peak weight reached 410 pounds (186 kilograms), though rumors suggest he was even heavier during his historic half-ton deadlift.

“In the 12th spot is ‘The Beast’ Eddie Hall, who in the 2016 and 2017 WSM came in weighing 410 pounds (186 kilograms) at 6 feet 3 inches tall.”

11. Andy Black — 419 Lbs (190 kgs)

Andy Black’s journey in Strongman commenced in 2021, marking his debut in major competitions. Despite 14 International appearances without a win, his ascent has been noteworthy. In the 2023 World’s Strongest Man, he secured fifth place in his group, showcasing promise despite the absence of victories.

“We got another Scottish giant, this time in the form of 419-pound (190-kilogram) 6-feet 7-inch Andy Black.”

10. Robert Oberst — 420 Lbs (190.5 kgs)

Robert Oberst, a familiar figure in the modern Strongman era, boasts eight appearances at the WSM. His highest achievement came in 2018, securing 8th place in a fiercely competitive lineup. Additionally, Oberst has competed in 15 International competitions, clinching victory in one of them.

“Into the top 10 now, and we are starting with USA’s Robert Oberst, who stands at 6 feet 7 inches tall and weighed 420 pounds (190.5 kilograms) in the 2020 WSM competition.”

9. Rick Brown — 420 Lbs (190.5 kgs)

Rick Brown, ranking ninth, may not seem towering, standing at 5 feet 11 inches. Yet, he carried 420 pounds on his frame, a remarkable feat. Competing in the 1985 and 1986 WSM contests, he secured 6th and 8th positions, respectively.

“Also weighing 420 pounds (190.5 kilograms) was Rick Brown from the USA.”

8. James Perry — 432 Lbs (196 kgs)

James Perry’s Strongman career was brief, with just one International appearance at the 1992 World’s Strongest Man competition, where he finished 9th. Despite his limited competition record, Perry left a lasting mark as one of the heaviest Strongman athletes to ever compete.

“At 6 feet tall, James Perry wasn’t tall by Strongman standards, but he weighed a whopping 432 pounds (196 kilograms).”

7. c — 440 Lbs (∼200 kgs)

Jerry Blackwell’s stats are indeed astounding; at 440 pounds and 5 feet 9 inches, he left an indelible impression. Despite his formidable size, his Strongman career was cut short, with only one competition, the 1979 WSM, where an injury led to his withdrawal.

“American Wrestler, Jerry Blackwell, weighed in at a colossal 440 pounds (∼200 kilograms) at the 1979 World’s Strongest Man.”

6. Dominic Filiou — 441 Lbs (200 kgs)

Dominic Filiou’s Strongman journey encompassed 20 International competitions, though victory eluded him. Nonetheless, his remarkable third-place finish at the 2005 WSM stands as a testament to his formidable prowess in the sport.

“Taking the sixth spot is the first and only Canadian athlete on our list, Dominic Filiou, who weighed 441 pounds (200 kilograms).”

5. Glenn Ross — 441 Lbs (200 kgs)

Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch, Glenn Ross ranks among the top five heaviest Strongman athletes in WSM history. Despite his imposing stature, he competed in five WSM editions without reaching the final. While his weight aided him in certain events, it posed challenges for his mobility and agility.

4. Hafthor Bjornsson — 441 Lbs (200 kgs)

3. Cleve Dean — 450 Lbs (204 kgs)

Cleve Dean’s Strongman career centered on two International competitions, both at the World’s Strongest Man contest. He secured 6th place in 1979 and 8th in 1980. Additionally, Dean excelled in arm wrestling, showcasing his strength across multiple disciplines.

“The American arm wrestler, Cleve Dean, is in third place, thanks to competing in the 1979 and 1980 WSM while weighing 450 pounds (204 kilograms).”

2. Gavin Bilton — 452 Lbs (205 kgs)

Gavin Bilton stands out as one of the few athletes still actively competing in Strongman. Ranking second with a weight of 452 pounds and a height of 6 feet 6 inches, he remains a formidable presence. With 25 International competitions under his belt, Bilton has emerged victorious in one. Notably, he has also managed to reduce his bodyweight in recent years.

“Number two on the list is the ‘Welsh Bull’, Gavin Bilton, who in the 2020 WSM weighed in at 450 pounds (205 kilograms).”

1. Brian Shaw — 454 Lbs (205.9 kgs)

Brian Shaw, a 4-time World’s Strongest Man champion, holds the distinction of being the heaviest competitor in the event’s history. His colossal stature proved advantageous as he ascended to become widely regarded as the greatest strongman of all time by many fans. Shaw’s dominance extended across 65 International and 3 National competitions, where he clinched victory in an impressive 29 shows. Later in his career, he opted to concentrate on the most elite competitions, where he continued to emerge victorious with remarkable consistency.

“Number one on the list is not just a big man, but a huge name in the sport. At 6 feet 8 inches tall, Brian Shaw has always been a big man. But at the 2017 WSM, his listed weight was 454 pounds (205.9 kilograms), making him the heaviest man to compete at the show.”

View Laurence ‘Big Loz’ Shahlaie’s video of 20 World’s Strongest Man:

In the world of Strongman, size is undeniably advantageous, yet there exists a threshold where excessive bulk can impede performance. The athletes we’ve examined navigate this delicate balance, pushing the boundaries of human capability while striving to maintain functionality. It’s a fine line between harnessing raw power and preserving the agility necessary for success in this demanding sport.

Overview

Laurence ‘Big Loz’ Shahlaei recently revealed the Top 20 Heaviest World’s Strongest man in Strongman history. This ranking showcases the immense size of competitors who dominate the sport. Size is crucial in Strongman, but excessive bulk can hinder performance. Shahlaei’s analysis provides insights into the challenges these athletes face in handling colossal weights while maintaining functionality and agility.

Featured Image @Hafthor Bjornsson, @Brian Shaw, @EddieHallWSM (Instagram)