The Strongwoman are here

Here we go! Crazy excited about the 2025 Arnold Strongwoman Classic is poised to redefine the limits of strength and determination. As the city's Greater Columbus Convention Center transforms into an arena of empowerment and athletic prowess, the world's premier strongwomen are gearing up for a contest that promises to be as inspiring as it is explosive. This year, a vibrant mix of defending champions, rising talents, and fearless newcomers will converge under one roof to lift, push, and carry their way into history. Amid the roar of an excited crowd and the palpable energy of a festival dedicated to celebrating human potential, every event—from the grueling Elephant Bar Deadlift to the demanding Atlas Stone to Shoulder—serves as a testament to the extraordinary power and resilience of these athletes. The stage is set for an unforgettable display of might, where every lift echoes the timeless call of strength and every competitor embodies the spirit of the ultimate celebration of female power. Let’s run the numbers.

The 2025 Arnold Strongwoman Classic features an impressive roster of elite competitors:

• Angelica Jardine (2024 Champion)

• Andrea Thompson

• Erin Murray

• Gabi Dixson

• Inez Carrasquillo

• Jennifer Lyle

• Lucy Underdown

• Melissa Peacock

• Nadia Stowers

• Olga Liashchuk

• Rebecca Roberts

• Sam Belliveau

Comparative Analysis

Angelica Jardine
• Defending Champion: As the 2024 champion, Jardine enters as the clear favorite. Her proven ability to handle the heavy, static events at the Arnold and her championship poise set a high standard.

Erin Murray
• Consistent Performer: With a reputation for combining raw strength with technical precision, Murray is widely expected to push for a podium finish. Her consistent event scores make her one of the top contenders.

Melissa Peacock
• Event Specialist: Known for excelling in timed and endurance-based events, Peacock has a dynamic skill set that could give her an edge if she hits her peak on the day.

Andrea Thompson
• Dark Horse Potential: Although less heralded than the defending champion, Thompson has shown promising improvements and could upset the established order if she brings her best performance to the stage.

Gabi Dixson
• Explosive and Powerful: Dixson’s raw strength and explosive event performances have earned her a reputation as a dangerous competitor who could capitalize on any slip-up from the front-runners.

Inez Carrasquillo
• Rising Talent: With several impressive performances under her belt, Carrasquillo is emerging as a competitor to watch. Her potential to produce a breakout performance makes her a noteworthy contender.

Jennifer Lyle
• Strong Amateur Credentials: Coming off her success as a top amateur, Lyle is transitioning into the elite scene with an underdog mentality that could translate into a surprise upset.

Lucy Underdown
• Steady and Resilient: Underdown has shown steady improvement over recent competitions. Her technical proficiency in events may help her gain ground on the favorites over the course of the contest.

Melissa Peacock (revisited)
• Versatile and Strategic: Already noted for her endurance, Peacock’s blend of power and strategy gives her a slight advantage in multi-event formats—making her a constant threat.

Nadia Stowers
• International Experience: With a background in global competitions, Stowers brings both experience and resilience, which might see her capitalizing on any inconsistent performances by the top seeds.

Olga Liashchuk
• Seasoned Veteran: Liashchuk’s experience at major contests means she knows how to pace herself through grueling events. While she might not be the outright favorite, her consistency keeps her in contention.

Rebecca Roberts & Sam Belliveau
• Wild Card Contenders: Both Roberts and Belliveau are seen as underdogs. Their inclusion in the roster signals potential, and a breakthrough performance from either could disrupt the expected order if they exceed their previous showings.

Speculative Odds

Based on current form, past achievements, and event-specific skills, here’s a set of speculative fractional odds for each competitor (for discussion purposes only):

• Angelica Jardine: 3/1 (≈25% chance)
  The defending champion with proven consistency in Arnold events.

• Erin Murray: 4/1 (≈20% chance)
  A top-tier contender known for her strength and precision.

• Melissa Peacock: 5/1 (≈16% chance)
  Her endurance and event strategy make her a formidable challenger.

• Andrea Thompson: 6/1 (≈14% chance)
  A dark horse with the potential to upset the favorites on her best day.

• Gabi Dixson: 8/1 (≈11% chance)
  Explosive power paired with competitive grit could see her capitalizing on an opportunity.

• Inez Carrasquillo: 10/1 (≈9% chance)
  An emerging talent who might deliver a surprise breakthrough performance.

• Jennifer Lyle: 12/1 (≈8% chance)
  Transitioning from a strong amateur background into the elite ranks.

• Lucy Underdown: 12/1 (≈8% chance)
  Consistent and technically sound, with potential to move up the standings.

• Nadia Stowers: 15/1 (≈6% chance)
  Her international experience is valuable, though she faces stiff competition.

• Olga Liashchuk: 20/1 (≈5% chance)
  A seasoned veteran whose consistency makes her a longshot for a top spot.

• Rebecca Roberts: 25/1 (≈4% chance)
  An underdog who could be a game-changer with a breakthrough performance.

• Sam Belliveau: 30/1 (≈3% chance)
  Also an underdog, Belliveau will need an exceptional day to upset the favorites.

While Angelica Jardine stands as the preeminent favorite given her championship pedigree, the depth of this field means that every competitor has the opportunity to make a mark. Dynamic performances from Erin Murray, Melissa Peacock, and Andrea Thompson could shift the balance, while the wild cards like Rebecca Roberts and Sam Belliveau offer the potential for unexpected upsets. As the event unfolds, factors such as day-of conditions, event strategy, and even slight shifts in form will play pivotal roles.

2025 Arnold Strongman is upon us

Photo by Steve Dee

This week we head to Columbus Ohio with excitement and anticipation as the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic draws near—a gladiatorial spectacle where raw power meets indomitable will. Set against the backdrop of the bustling Arnold Sports Festival, this year’s competition promises to be a monumental clash of titans, with world-class athletes like two-time champion Mitchell Hooper, the ever-powerful Hafthor Björnsson, and three-time World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman leading the charge. As fans from across the globe converge on Ohio, every press of the elephant bar and every grueling atlas stone lift will be a testament to human strength, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of competition. The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the promise of history in the making fuels an excitement that can be felt in every roar of the crowd and every bead of sweat in the arena. Welcome to a celebration of might, where legends are born and the boundaries of strength are pushed to their very limits. Let’s take a look at the competition and of course talk odds.

The men's lineup for the 2025 Arnold Strongman Classic in Ohio is as follows:

• Mitchell Hooper – Two-Time Reigning ASC Champion

• Hafthor Björnsson – Three-Time ASC Champion

• Austin Andrade

• Bobby Thompson

• Evan Singleton

• Lucas Hatton

• Maxime Boudreault

• Nick Guardione – 2024 Official Strongman Games Men’s Open Champion

• Tom Stoltman – Three-Time Reigning World's Strongest Man

• Trey Mitchell – Two-Time Shaw Classic Champion

Comparative Analysis

Mitchell Hooper
• Two-time reigning ASC Champion, Hooper has consistently demonstrated superior static strength and event-specific consistency.
• His experience—especially in events like the Elephant Bar Deadlift and overhead challenges—makes him the favorite.

Hafthor Björnsson
• A three-time ASC champion, Hafthor brings immense power and raw strength to the contest.
• While his track record is impressive, fluctuations in form or slight injury concerns mean he may be a shade less consistent than Hooper on the day.

Tom Stoltman
• Known globally as a three-time World's Strongest Man, Stoltman’s overall strength is unquestioned.
• His dynamic performance history suggests he can excel in many events; however, his record in static, timed events sometimes trails that of dedicated specialists.

Austin Andrade & Trey Mitchell
• Both rising talents with impressive recent results (Andrade showing versatility and Trey excelling in events like the Shaw Classic) can upset the established order.
• Their performances will be key in determining if they can bridge the gap to the elite group.

Bobby Thompson
• A reliable competitor who often emerges as a dark horse, Thompson’s consistency could see him capitalize on any slip-up by the favorites.

Evan Singleton
• Known for his raw power, Singleton has the ability to post standout numbers but may lack the overall event experience compared to the top three.

Lucas Hatton, Maxime Boudreault & Nick Guardione
• These athletes have shown potential and have had noteworthy performances on the international stage.
• However, they are generally considered underdogs against the proven consistency and star power of Hooper, Björnsson, and Stoltman.

Predicted Odds (Speculative)

Based on historical data and event-specific skills, here are some rough fractional odds along with their implied win probabilities:

• Mitchell Hooper: 3/1 (≈25% chance)
  The clear favorite given his championship pedigree and event expertise.

• Hafthor Björnsson: 4/1 (≈20% chance)
  A powerhouse with strong credentials, though with slightly more variability in performance.

• Tom Stoltman: 5/1 (≈16% chance)
  A formidable contender whose overall strength and competitive experience keep him in the mix.

• Austin Andrade: 8/1 (≈11% chance)
  A rising star with potential to upset the established order if he peaks on competition day.

• Trey Mitchell: 8/1 (≈11% chance)
  Similarly, a talented up-and-comer who could leverage his strong performance at events like the Shaw Classic.

• Bobby Thompson: 10/1 (≈9% chance)
  A consistent performer who might capitalize on an off-day from the favorites.

• Evan Singleton: 12/1 (≈8% chance)
  Offers explosive power but might struggle against the experience of the top tier.

• Lucas Hatton: 15/1 (≈6% chance)
  An underdog with potential who faces an uphill battle in a deep field.

• Maxime Boudreault: 20/1 (≈5% chance)
  A talented competitor but with odds that reflect the stiff competition in the elite group.

• Nick Guardione: 25/1 (≈4% chance)
  Fresh off a strong performance at the 2024 Official Strongman Games, he is seen as a longshot among the established names.

While Hooper, Björnsson, and Stoltman emerge as the top favorites due to their proven track records, the dynamic nature of strongman competitions means upsets are always possible. The mid-tier competitors (Andrade, Trey Mitchell, and Thompson) have the potential to capitalize on any inconsistency among the leaders, whereas the underdogs (Singleton, Hatton, Boudreault, and Guardione) will be aiming to make a breakthrough performance.

Steve Dee

The 2025 Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Classic: A Preview of Strength and Dominance

The 2025 Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Classic: A Preview of Strength and Dominance

The 2025 Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Classic is set to take place from February 28 to March 1 in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the most prestigious events in the world of strength sports, the competition will showcase elite athletes in a series of grueling events designed to test their raw power, endurance, and skill.

2025 Arnold Strongman Classic

Confirmed Athletes:

- Austin Andrade

- Hafthor Bjornsson

- Maxime Boudreault

- Nick Guardione

- Lucas Hatton

- Mitchell Hooper

- Mateusz Kieliszkowski

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Trey Mitchell

- Evan Singleton

- Tom Stoltman

- Bobby Thompson

Event Lineup:

1. Elephant Bar Deadlift for Max Weight– Athletes will attempt to lift the heaviest possible weight using the renowned Elephant Bar.

2. Overhead Gauntlet– Competitors must press three different implements overhead, including a stone, a dumbbell, and a log.

3. Frame Carry – A heavy wooden frame will be carried over a designated distance, testing grip and lower body strength.

4. The Big Jerk for Max Weight – A new addition requiring athletes to press the heaviest weight possible overhead using any technique.

5. Timber Test– A mysterious but expectedly brutal event involving logs, likely testing endurance and full-body strength.

6. Atlas Stone to Shoulder – The classic strongman event, where competitors must lift an Atlas stone to their shoulder for maximum repetitions.

Predictions:

Elephant Bar Deadlift Hafthor Bjornsson is the favorite given his world record history. Mitchell Hooper and Trey Mitchell will also be in contention.

-Overhead Gauntlet: Mateusz Kieliszkowski’s pressing speed makes him a top contender, with Mitchell Hooper and Lucas Hatton also posing a challenge.

Frame Carry Kieliszkowski, a world record holder in this event, is expected to dominate. Maxime Boudreault and Hooper should also perform well.

-The Big Jerk: Lucas Hatton’s split jerk technique makes him the favorite, while Mitchell Hooper and Tom Stoltman remain strong competitors.

-Timber Test: The taller athletes like Tom Stoltman and Bjornsson might have an advantage, while Hooper and Kieliszkowski’s endurance will be crucial.

- Atlas Stone to Shoulder: Mateusz Kieliszkowski is a strong favorite, with Tom Stoltman and Hooper also expected to shine.

Mitchell Hooper, the reigning champion, is the man to beat, but the deep field of talent promises an intense battle for the podium.

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2025 Arnold Strongwoman Classic

Confirmed Athletes:

- Angelica Jardine (Defending Champion)

-Andrea Thompson (2023 Masters World’s Strongest Woman)

- Erin Murray (2024 U73 World’s Strongest Woman)

- Gabi Dixson

- **Inez Carrasquillo** (2024 Rogue Strongwoman Invitational Champion)

- Jennifer Lyle (2024 Arnold Amateur Strongwoman World Champion)

- Lucy Underdown (2024 Britain’s Strongest Woman)

- Melissa Peacock (2024 Shaw Classic Open Women’s Champion)

- Nadia Stowers (2024 U82 World’s Strongest Woman)

- Olga Liashchuck

- Rebecca Roberts

- Sam Belliveau

Event Lineup:

1. Elephant Bar Deadlift for Max Weight– Testing maximum raw power in the deadlift.

2. **Overhead Gauntlet** – Three overhead lifts using different implements to assess upper body strength and coordination.

3. Frame Carry – A grip and lower body strength test, as competitors transport a heavy wooden frame.

4. The Big Jerk for Max Weight– Pressing the heaviest weight possible overhead using any lifting style.

5. Timber Test – Likely a multi-implement event testing endurance and explosive strength.

6. Atlas Stone to Shoulder– Lifting the classic Atlas stone for maximum repetitions.

### **Predictions:**

- Elephant Bar Deadlift: Lucy Underdown is the top pick, with Andrea Thompson and Inez Carrasquillo also expected to excel.

Overhead Gauntlet: Andrea Thompson, a log press world record holder, is the likely leader, with Inez Carrasquillo and Nadia Stowers close behind.

- Frame Carry Angelica Jardine’s grip strength could be decisive, with Melissa Peacock and Rebecca Roberts also in contention.

The Big Jerk: Andrea Thompson is the favorite, but Inez Carrasquillo and Sam Belliveau will challenge for the win.

- Timber Test: Strength and endurance will be key, favoring Angelica Jardine and Erin Murray.

Atlas Stone to Shoulder: Rebecca Roberts is the leading contender, with Sam Belliveau and Melissa Peacock also strong in this event.

Angelica Jardine aims to defend her title, but Andrea Thompson’s overhead dominance and Inez Carrasquillo’s recent surge in performance make this an unpredictable competition.

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Conclusion:

The 2025 Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Classic will bring together some of the strongest athletes in the world for a showcase of incredible power and endurance. With reigning champions looking to defend their titles and new contenders aiming to make their mark, this year's event promises to be one of the most competitive yet. Whether in the deadlift, overhead pressing, or moving events, fans can expect to witness world-class strength and unforgettable performances in Columbus, Ohio.

Strength Titans Clash: A Look at the Strongman and Strongwoman Competitions at the 2024 Rogue Invitational

As the 2024 Rogue Invitational heads into its final day in Aberdeen, Scotland, the Strongman and Strongwoman events stand out as highlights of this prestigious fitness competition. Known for showcasing brute strength and endurance, these segments have attracted some of the strongest athletes in the world, making it a cornerstone of the Rogue Invitational's appeal. The competition this year has been fierce, with athletes pushing the boundaries of human strength and resilience.

Strongman Competition: A Battle of Giants

The Strongman competition at the Rogue Invitational features a series of grueling events that test the athletes' power and endurance. From atlas stone lifts to yoke carries, each event is designed to challenge these competitors to their limits. The leaderboard going into the final day is a testament to the intense rivalry and immense strength displayed by the athletes:

1. Mitchell Hooper — Leading with 54 points, Canada's Mitchell Hooper has shown exceptional skill and power throughout the competition. Known for his dynamic approach and strategic prowess, Hooper's performance has been nothing short of spectacular.

2. Hafthor Bjornsson — Tied for second place with 44 points, the legendary Icelandic strongman, also known as "The Mountain," remains a formidable competitor. His presence in the competition underscores the high level of talent the event attracts.

3. Tom Stoltman — Also with 44 points, Scotland’s own Tom Stoltman has leveraged his home-field advantage and crowd support to stay neck and neck with Bjornsson. Known for his expertise in atlas stones, Stoltman is a crowd favorite.

4. Evan Singleton — With 41.5 points, American strongman Evan Singleton has made significant strides, demonstrating his strength and determination in each event.

5. Luke Stoltman — Tom Stoltman's brother, Luke, rounds out the top five with 32 points. His consistent performance across various events keeps him in contention for a top spot.

Strongwoman Competition: Showcasing Sheer Power

The Strongwoman competition mirrors the intensity of the men's events but brings its unique flair and competitiveness. As strongwomen go head-to-head in equally demanding challenges, here’s how the leaderboard looks:

1. Inez Carrasquillo — Leading with 53 points, Inez Carrasquillo from the USA has dominated the field with her incredible power and agility. Her performance has set new standards in Strongwoman competitions.

2. Olga Liashchuk — With 47 points, Ukraine’s Olga Liashchuk remains a close contender. Known for her remarkable strength and experience, Liashchuk is a veteran in the sport.

3. Lucy Underdown — Holding third place with 41 points, Britain's Lucy Underdown has showcased her tenacity and strength, making her a significant competitor and one to watch during the final events.

4. Angelica Jardine — With 40 points, Angelica Jardine has been impressive, proving that she can hold her own among the world's strongest.

5. Hannah Linzay — Rounding out the top five with 29 points, the American strongwoman Hannah Linzay continues to push through the ranks with her spirited performances.

Final Day Anticipation

As the Rogue Invitational approaches its climax, the anticipation for the final day's events is palpable. With the leaderboard so tightly packed, any of the top competitors have a shot at clinching the title. The final events, often the most challenging and decisive, are set to determine who will walk away as the champions of the 2024 Rogue Invitational.

The atmosphere at P&J Live is charged with excitement, as fans and fellow athletes look forward to witnessing feats of strength that push the limits of what many thought possible. This year's Rogue Invitational not only highlights individual achievements but also celebrates the spirit of competition and the incredible community that forms around these awe-inspiring events.

In conclusion, the Strongman and Strongwoman competitions at the Rogue Invitational offer a thrilling spectacle of strength, endurance, and human potential. These athletes, through their incredible performances, inspire many and contribute to the growing popularity and respect for strength sports globally. As the final day unfolds, all eyes will be on these titans of strength as they vie for the top spot in one of the most challenging and revered competitions in the world of fitness.