Hafthor Bjornsson Eyes Return to World’s Strongest Man: “There is a Possibility”

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Hafthor Bjornsson, the legendary Icelandic strongman and 2018 World’s Strongest Man champion, has opened up about a potential return to the biggest stage in strength sports. In a recent video, the 6'9" powerhouse revealed that discussions are underway with the World’s Strongest Man (WSM) organizers, sparking excitement among fans who have long awaited his comeback.

Hafthor Bjornsson Talks About His Strongman Future​

After stepping away from competitive strongman in 2020, Hafthor Bjornsson shifted his focus to other pursuits, including professional boxing, acting, and personal fitness goals. However, his passion for the sport remains undeniable. In early 2024, he made a strongman comeback, and now, the idea of returning to WSM is no longer out of the question.

Bjornsson confirmed that he is in active talks with IMG, the organization behind World’s Strongest Man, discussing the conditions for his potential return.

“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… There is a possibility, which is huge. Not so long ago, in my head, there was just no way (of Hafthor competing at WSM). Maybe I am maturing; maybe I am able to forgive, since I am thinking about it.”

This revelation marks a dramatic shift from Bjornsson’s previous stance, as he had expressed discontent with the event’s organization in the past. His falling-out with certain officials dates back to his rivalry with Eddie Hall, where disputes over judging decisions during WSM 2017 led to tension between the two strongmen.

Despite the history, Hafthor is now considering a return—something that once seemed impossible.

Aiming for a New Deadlift World Record​

Bjornsson’s ambitions extend beyond World’s Strongest Man. In his latest video, he reiterated his determination to break his 501-kilogram (1,104.5-pound) All-Time Deadlift World Record.

Currently, he is working with promoters to set up a record attempt, ensuring that all factors—timing, venue, and financial incentives—align perfectly.

“I want to break it (All-Time Deadlift World Record), 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 don’t care if I need to travel; I am willing to fly.”

Additionally, Bjornsson addressed the possibility of breaking the raw deadlift world record, which currently stands at 470 kilograms (1,036.2 pounds), held by Trey Mitchell. Unlike his previous record, this lift would be performed without a deadlift suit.

“Regarding the deadlift Raw world record, same thing… That record, in my opinion, is slightly easier for me. I don’t really get a whole lot from a suit. The Raw record right now is 470 kilograms (1,036.2 pounds), held by Trey Mitchell. I could pull that today; I could break that today if I wanted to.”

Balancing Strongman and Acting​

While strongman remains a major focus, Bjornsson is also expanding his acting career. Best known for playing Ser Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane in Game of Thrones, he has now landed a role in the upcoming Masters of the Universe film, where he will portray Goat Man.

“A lot of you guys are probably wondering why I am shaving my beard all the time… I am actually in preparation to start filming in March and April for He-Man and the Masters of the Universe… I’ll be a character named ‘Goat Man’… As far as I know, it is going to come out next year.”

Preparing for the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic​

Currently, Hafthor Bjornsson is focused on the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic, which takes place from February 28 – March 1 in Columbus, Ohio. This will be his first major strongman competition since returning to the sport, and he is determined to reclaim his fourth Arnold title.

At the moment, Bjornsson weighs 200 kilograms (440.9 pounds), only slightly lighter than his 205-208 kilograms (452-458 pounds) frame when he set the 501-kg deadlift record.

“My body weight right now is 200 kilograms (440.9 pounds). I was 205-208 kilograms (452-458 pounds) when I pulled 501-kg (1,104.5-lb).”

If everything goes according to plan, Bjornsson may attempt another historic deadlift at the Arnold Strongman Classic, where breaking 501 kilograms on the Elephant Bar could earn him a $101,000 prize.

What’s Next for Hafthor Bjornsson?​

With his strongman comeback in full swing, Hafthor Bjornsson is poised for an eventful 2025. His return to WSM is still in the discussion phase, but his deadlift ambitions and acting projects are already set in motion.

If Bjornsson does make a WSM comeback, he would instantly become one of the top contenders for the title, adding even more excitement to the competition.