Worlds strongest set to battle for biggest strongman prize purse in history
The world’s strongest men, including newly-married television star Hafthor Bjornsson, will roar at the at the colosseum-esque Bab Al Shams Arena in Al Marmoom on Friday as they battle for the biggest strongman prize purse in history and the title of the World’s Ultimate Strongman. Being organised in collaboration with Dubai Sports Council, the World's Ultimate Strongman at the Beasts in the Middle East has attracted 14 of the world’s mightiest men, including three who have won the World’s Strongest Man title. The roster includes British superstar Terry Hollands, a veteran of about 250 competitions, and the likes of upcoming Polish star Mateusz Kieliszkowski, “Highland Oak” Luke Stoltman of Scotland, “Georgian Bull” Konstantine Janashia, Lithuanian legend Zydrunas Savickas and show-boater Iron Biby from Burkina Faso. Englishman Eddie Hall, winner of the 2017 World's Strongest Man title, is brand ambassador of the event, while American entertainer Robert “Obie” Oberst is here as well, but will not be competing as he is recovering from a bicep injury.
Fans, however, will not be complaining as the reigning World’s Strongest Man, “The Mountain” Bjornsson has already arrived and is looking forward to entertaining his fans.
Bjornsson is a well-known television star, having played Gregor Clegane in the Game of Thrones, the critically-acclaimed TV series that boasts record viewership and owns 38 Primetime Emmy Awards, which is more than any other primetime scripted television series.
Iceland’s Bjornsson, a 6ft 9in giant who weighs between 180kg-200kg, is one of the biggest stars of the circuit and has millions of fans around the world. A former professional basketball player, he is the first person to have won the Arnold Strongman Classic, Europe’s Strongest Man and World's Strongest Man in the same calendar year.
The World’s Ultimate Strongman is the first and biggest event of its kind to be held in the Middle East. With the richest Strongman prize-purse ever on offer, it promises to be a jaw-dropping contest between humanity's strongest for the coveted title. The event will be an opportunity for fans to witness Bjornsson and fellow strongmen perform incredible feats of power across a number of disciplines - from lifting logs over their head to pulling objects like trucks and cars, as they compete to prove their supremacy in strength, speed and conditioning.
The World’s Ultimate Strongman event, however, is not just about these incredible athletes. Organisers have promised a day out for the entire family, with activities not only for adults but also for kids, including a roller skating park and inflatable obstacle courses.
There will also be a special martial arts show on the day and Shaolin Monks, who are considered among the best martial artists in the world, will be flying in from China to exhibit their ancient art.
Alongside the activities, there will be a variety of unlimited food and beverage buffets, and a not to be missed food truck styled food court, along with live music and entertainment. The event, thus, will be a perfect fusion of sports and entertainment, making it a never before seen phenomenon in the Middle East as the Bab Al Shams Arena is transformed into a festival ground for the day.
“By creating a great family day out with an ambience like never before seen in Dubai, we aim to get all our visitors the absolute best value for their money,” said Mark Boyd, who is the owner and producer of the show along with Don Idrees. “Our spectators will leave the show excited, smiling and already planning their visit next year on the drive back from Bab Al Shams.”
“We are extremely excited to be producing and organising the largest show in the Strongman sport and an event that is 100 per cent created, conceptualised and realised in Dubai,” added Idrees. “A true example of yet another home-grown spectacle with special thanks to Dubai Sports Council and Bab al Shams for their support.”
FACTFILE
What: The World’s Ultimate Strongman
When: Friday, October 26, 2018
Time: 3pm to 3am
Venue: Bab Al Shams Arena, Al Marmoom, Dubai
Travel packages and tickets: www.worldsultimatestrongman.com
