Novikov has bitten off as much as he can chew, aiming high this year.
In many ways, 2022 was a year to remember for Oleksii Novikov. The prolific Ukrainian strongman stood on the podium on three separate occasions at the 2022 Europe’s Strongest Man (ESM), the Giants Live Strongman Classic (GLSC) and the Strongman Rogue Invitational (RI). In addition, the former World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion (2020) set a new all-time Hummer tire deadlift world record of 549 kilograms (1,210 pounds) at the 2022 Shaw Classic. Few would be satisfied with such a resume for an entire career, let alone a single year. Novikov isn’t wired that way. They’ve never done anything but put the pedal to the metal and head to the next challenge.
On January 16, 2023, Novikov posted a Q&A video to the English version of his YouTube channel, breaking down his upcoming plans for the 2023 calendar year. One of the more notable revelations is that Novikov will try to build on his Hummer tire deadlift world record by successfully pulling it. 600 kilograms (1,322.7 pounds) In the next iteration of the Shaw Classic, on August 19-20, 2023. This mark is one An astonishing 51 kilograms (112.3 pounds) On top of his current record achievement.
When discussing why he wanted to extend his Hummer tire deadlift record by such a staggering amount, Novikov noted that he didn’t do much preparation before the pull in 2022. He believes that only greater commitment to the process can lead to this time. A dramatic leap towards the sky as he tries to distinguish himself from his peers.
“I want to go to the Shaw Classic and pull 600 kilograms (1,322.7 pounds). [Hummer] Tire deadlift, “Novikov said. “Since last year I did 549 kilograms (1,210 pounds), now I want to pull 600 kilograms to close the matter about this deadlift. Last time, I didn’t train it.
Apart from extending the record points, Novikov surprisingly plans to defend his ESM and RI titles. The 2023 ESM is scheduled for April 1, 2023 in Leeds, England, and the 2023 RI will be held in Fall 2023 at a yet to be confirmed date. Plus, while he’s not sure about the schedule, Novikov maintains that he will appear in a measure of the Giants’ live contests.
Last but certainly not least, Strongman will compete for another WSM title April 18-23, 2023 in Myrtle Beach, SC. If he successfully dethroned two-time champion Tom Stoltman, it would be Novikov’s second WSM victory in four years.
“What I’m planning at the moment is the strongest man in Europe, the strongest man in the world and a demon. [Invitational]” said Novikov. “That’s what I wanted. I don’t know exactly all the dates and events of Giants Live. So, if everything goes well, I will make sure to compete there.
Some athletes put their minds to their tasks and occasionally achieve nominally great things. Novikov, again, is not like other athletes. When he has a target in his crosshairs, chances are he will reach it and exceed all expectations.
Featured Image: @novikov_strong_wsm / Instagram
