Is a return to the World’s Strongest man competition in the works for Hafthor Bjornsson?
Strongman Hafthor Bjornsson is currently preparing for the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic this weekend but has other projects in the works as well. It might not be one you were thinking about. During a recent Q&A, Thor expressed that he is “thinking” about returning to the World’s Strongest Man competition in the future.
[RELATED: Hafthor Bjornsson Nearly Drops Over 500 Pounds On His Back During Training]
Hafthor Bjornsson is training for the competition as a whole while also accepting a deadlift challenge. The Icelandic strongman and former “World’s Strongest Man” winner, renowned for his unmatched feats of strength, will take on a new challenge during the event. Bjornsson will take on the 501kg elephant bar deadlift challenge for the chance to win $101,000.
Bjornsson is one of the all-time great Strongmen and has the deadlift record to prove it. He currently holds the all-time deadlift world record at 501 kilograms (1,104.5 pounds). In 2020, Bjornsson took a break from competition and transitioning into boxing. He went through an impressive physique transformation before returning to powerlifting. After suffering a torn pec, Bjornsson returned to his best form.
Hafthor Bjornsson Talks Return to WSM
Thor was asked about a potential return to the WSM competition in the future. After issues in the past, he shared that he is in talks with IMG about a comeback.
“I have been in talks right now with IMG, the ones running World’s Strongest Man. I have told them what needs to happen for me to return. They are trying to make that happen and we’ll see. There is a possibility, which is huge.”
Bjornsson was part of the World’s Strongest Man many times during his career. He finished third three times before finishing as the runner-up in 2016 and 2017. The very next year, Thor won his first title. He did not share a potential timetable for a return but admitted that it has been a thought in his head.
“Not so long ago, in my head, there was just no way. Maybe in a way, I am maturing. Maybe I am able to forgive since I’m thinking about it so there’s a possibility, guys.”
Hafthor Bjornsson shared that he is currently 200kg (440.9lbs). He is preparing to take on a major deadlift challenge at the Arnold this weekend. Last time he lifted 501kg, he weighed 205-208kg (452-458lbs). There are plans to attempt to break his own record in the future as well.
“I want to break it, if I get the right opportunity and the right setup. I have been in talks with promoters. Things just have to line up right. To be honest, I have to be paid as well. I am not going to do it just for nothing. I am willing to fly.”
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