Hafthor Björnsson, the Icelandic strongman known as “The Mountain,” made a bold attempt to break his own Elephant Bar Deadlift record at the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic in Columbus, Ohio.
Although he fell short of the 501-kilogram (1,105-pound) lift, he still secured a first-place finish in the event with a 466-kilogram (1,026-pound) pull.
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Aiming for History, But Falling Just Short
Björnsson entered the event as the Elephant Bar Deadlift world record holder, having lifted 475 kilograms (1,046 pounds) in 2019. With the 501-kilogram milestone in sight, he set his sights on making history once again.
However, the record-breaking attempt didn’t go as planned. After successfully lifting 1,026 pounds, he stepped up for the 501-kilogram lift but was unable to complete the pull. The bar moved slightly off the floor before he let it back down, visibly frustrated.
Despite the setback, Björnsson dominated the competition, winning the event and earning 10 points in the overall standings. Mitch Hooper, the two-time defending champion, placed second with a 449-kilogram (991-pound) lift, while Bobby Thompson finished third at 447 kilograms (986 pounds).
A Strong Comeback in Strength Sports
Björnsson’s performance marked another milestone in his return to strongman competition. After briefly stepping away from the sport in 2020 to pursue boxing, he made his comeback in 2023 and has steadily regained his position as one of the top competitors in the world.
Speaking before the event, Björnsson expressed confidence in his training.
“My body is feeling healthy, no injuries, nothing is bothering me. I’m in a very good spot, mentally and physically,” he shared.
His preparation was nearly derailed by a training accident, where he dropped a 507-pound overhead press on his back.
“I was a little bit worried at first,” he admitted. “You never know how bad it actually is until later. Thankfully, my body was able to handle it very well.”
What Makes the Elephant Bar Deadlift Unique?
The Elephant Bar is unlike a standard deadlift bar. It’s longer and more flexible, creating a unique challenge for lifters. Unlike traditional powerlifting competitions, competitors must lift raw—without deadlift suits or figure-eight straps, which can help secure grip.
Björnsson noted the difference in technique required.
“It’s a conventional deadlift, but the bar whips a bit more. It’s slightly different than my standard bar deadlift record where I pulled 501—we were allowed to use figure-eight straps and a suit. Here, it’s completely Strongman-style raw.”
What’s Next for Björnsson?
With the Elephant Bar Deadlift event behind him, Björnsson remains a strong contender for his fourth Arnold Strongman Classic title. Five events remain, and he believes he can still take the overall win.
“I usually recover quite well after each event. Obviously, pulling a big lift like that fatigues you, but I still believe I can win the whole show,” he said.
As for his future strength goals, Björnsson hinted at more record-breaking attempts, including a raw deadlift record on a standard bar.
“It’s all about opportunities and timing. I’ve been in talks with promoters about breaking my 501 record again. There’s also a possibility of attempting the raw deadlift record,” he revealed.
The Road Ahead
While Björnsson didn’t set a new record, his first-place finish proves he remains a dominant force in strongman competition. As the Arnold Strongman Classic continues, all eyes will be on whether he can secure another overall title—and if he’ll attempt 501 kilograms again in the near future.
