Hall to defend ‘World’s Strongest Man’ title in Manila

MANILA, Philippines – Eddie Hall, the reigning "World's Strongest Man," is set to put the world on notice and at the same time put the Philippines on many globetrotters' maps.

"World Strongest Man" is slated to mount its 41st edition of the contest across a myriad of Philippine destinations the Department of Tourism revealed on Thursday.

“This year’s edition of the World’s Strongest Man will not only be a ‘Thrilla in Manila’ as it will showcase some of our top tourist destinations and promote the country as a worthwhile venue for international sports events,” said DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo.

“The competition is about stamina, skill, tactics, training and strategy. Every event is designed to push the strongmen to their absolute limits, challenging not only their physical strength, but their agility and mental toughness, too,” said Tourism undersecretary Kat De Castro.

Hall triumphed in last year’s competition, which was held in the Republic of Botswana, South Africa, where the 30-year-old posted a world record deadlift on a 1020-pound long bar.                    

The television series, which is projected to air in 70 countries, will feature destinations such as Rizal Park, Intramuros, Bonifacio Global City, Corregidor Island, Tagaytay City, Bataan, Davao City, and Coron Island in Palawan among others.

Among the notable names in the contest are Bryan Benzel of the United States and Iceland’s Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, who is most recognizable from his role in the TV series "Game of Thrones."

The WSM events will take place for nine days in various locations in and outside Metro Manila starting April 28, including four qualifying days (April 28–May 1), three rest days, and two days for the finals (May 5–6).

De Castro said the competition includes truck or airplane pulling, carrying a refrigerator, lifting an Atlas stone weighing over 1000 pounds, and lifting huge logs.

She hopes that the Filipinos' passion for competition draws more international events into the country, just like the success brought by holding the Ironman triathlon in Davao City recently.

Previous WSM competitions were held in Hollywood, California; West Virginia, Morocco, China, and Botswana, South Africa.