Hafthor Bjornsson
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Hafthor “The Mountain” Bjornsson has announced he’s pulling out of the Rogue Invitational after suffering a nerve-related shoulder issue that’s robbed him of his pressing strength. In a heartfelt update to fans, the Icelandic strongman explained that while his lower body remains strong, his right shoulder isn’t firing properly, making overhead lifts impossible.
Bjornsson said the decision to withdraw wasn’t easy. Since 2009, he’s competed relentlessly without ever backing out of a show. Even when injured—like at World’s Strongest Man 2019—he finished. But this time, the risk of worsening the injury outweighed his drive to compete. “I don’t want to show up just to participate,” Thor said. “If I can’t win, I’m not going.”
Despite the setback, fans won’t be left disappointed. Rogue organizers agreed to let Bjornsson take part in the deadlift event as a special guest appearance. He hinted he might even chase a new record if things go well.
The emotional update wasn’t all bad news—Thor celebrated hitting 1 million YouTube subscribers, thanking his fans for their loyalty. He promised to recover, diagnose the issue, and return stronger.
At 36, Bjornsson knows healing takes time, but he remains optimistic: training legs, staying active, and focused on recovery. Fans will still get to see him in action in Texas, where he plans to deadlift for the crowd one last time before taking a break.
Bjornsson said the decision to withdraw wasn’t easy. Since 2009, he’s competed relentlessly without ever backing out of a show. Even when injured—like at World’s Strongest Man 2019—he finished. But this time, the risk of worsening the injury outweighed his drive to compete. “I don’t want to show up just to participate,” Thor said. “If I can’t win, I’m not going.”
Despite the setback, fans won’t be left disappointed. Rogue organizers agreed to let Bjornsson take part in the deadlift event as a special guest appearance. He hinted he might even chase a new record if things go well.
The emotional update wasn’t all bad news—Thor celebrated hitting 1 million YouTube subscribers, thanking his fans for their loyalty. He promised to recover, diagnose the issue, and return stronger.
At 36, Bjornsson knows healing takes time, but he remains optimistic: training legs, staying active, and focused on recovery. Fans will still get to see him in action in Texas, where he plans to deadlift for the crowd one last time before taking a break.
