Throughout history, mankind has been captivated by the pursuit of physical strength.
From the legendary tales of Hercules to the ancient Olympic Games, the quest to identify the world’s strongest man has always been a fascination.
Various strength sports and competitions have evolved over time to determine the ultimate powerhouse, including the World’s Strongest Man (WSM) competition since 1977.
Still, the debate continues, with different factions supporting athletes from their preferred sports or organizations.
In an effort to rank the 10 strongest men of all time, we have consulted with renowned strength historian Dr. Terry Todd and reviewed countless records and feats performed by strength athletes from different eras.
Comparing athletes from various periods is challenging due to factors like changes in training methods and the availability of chemical enhancements.
Thus, we considered both recorded and potential strength to create a metaphysical leveling of the playing field.
Without further ado, here’s our definitive list of the 10 strongest men in history.
1. Zydrunas Savickas – Powerlifter, Strongman
Born: Lithuania, 1975
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 400 lbs
Zydrunas Savickas tops our list as the strongest man of all time.
His seven-time victory in the Arnold Strongman Classic, considered a truer test of pure strength than the WSM, showcases his unmatched prowess.
Savickas broke world records and achieved victory at the IFSA Strongman World Championship, solidifying his dominance.
He also boasts incredible numbers in the squat, deadlift, and bench press.
2. Mark Henry – Weightlifter, Powerlifter, Strongman, Wrestler
Born: USA, 1971
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 412 lbs
Mark Henry’s unique distinction of holding both U.S.
weightlifting and powerlifting superheavyweight championship titles simultaneously sets him apart.
Though he ventured into WWE, his untapped potential hints at his potential as the strongest man in history.
3. Bill Kazmaier – Powerlifter, Strongman
Born: USA, 1953
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 330 lbs
Bill Kazmaier is often considered the strongest of the strong.
His victories in the WSM competitions and remarkable feats, such as lifting all five McGlashen stones and a 661-pound bench press, solidify his status.
4. Paul Anderson – Weightlifter, Powerlifter, Showman
Lived: USA, 1932–1994
Height: 5’9″
Weight: 350 lbs
Paul Anderson’s remarkable feats, including winning an Olympic Gold medal in weightlifting and squatting 700 pounds for eight reps, earned him a place on this list.
5. Vasyl Virastyuk – Strongman
Born: Ukraine, 1974
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 320 lbs
Virastyuk’s victories in both the WSM and IFSA World Championship competitions highlight his extraordinary strength, with his IFSA win edging out the top contender on our list.
6. Louis Uni – Strongman
Lived: France, 1862-1928
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 260 lbs
Louis Uni, also known as Apollon the Mighty, is a pioneer in strength sports.
His grip strength and agility, combined with his wrestling challenges, make him a unique entry on this list.
7. Brian Siders – Powerlifter
Born: USA, 1978
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 345 lbs
Brian Siders’ overall strength is exemplified by his impressive powerlifting achievements, with lifts like a 1,019-pound squat, 799-pound bench press, and 865-pound deadlift.
8. Andy Bolton- Powerlifter
Born: England, 1970
Height: 6′
Weight: 350 lbs
Andy Bolton, the first man to deadlift 1,000 pounds, is renowned for his extraordinary powerlifting records, including a 1,213.63-pound squat.
9. Leonid Taranenko – Weightlifter
Born: USSR, 1956
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 260 lbs
Leonid Taranenko’s weightlifting records for the clean and jerk and total have stood since 1988, demonstrating his incredible strength.
10. Brian Shaw- Strongman
Born: USA, 1982
Height: 6’8″
Weight: 435 lbs
Brian Shaw, a two-time WSM winner, has displayed his strength with feats like a 972-pound deadlift and a 1,122-pound Hummer tire deadlift, along with impressive gym records.
This list represents the most definitive ranking of the world’s strongest men throughout history, with each individual showcasing incredible feats of strength in their respective disciplines.
While debates about the strongest man will continue, these athletes have left an indelible mark on the world of strength sports.
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