Ever one to bite off as much as he can chew, Novikov is aiming high this yr.
In some ways, 2022 was quite a yr to recollect for Oleksii Novikov. The prolific Ukrainian strongman stood on top of the rostrum on three separate occasions on the 2022 Europe’s Strongest Man (ESM), Giants Live Strongman Classic (GLSC), and Strongman Rogue Invitational (RI). As well as, the previous World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion (2020) set a latest all-time Hummer Tire Deadlift World Record of 549 kilograms (1,210 kilos) on the 2022 Shaw Classic. Some could be content with such a resume over a complete profession, let alone in a single yr. Novikov shouldn’t be wired that way. He’s never been one to do anything but put the pedal to the metal and go headlong into the subsequent challenge.
On Jan. 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 yr. Among the many more notable revelations is that Novikov will try to construct on his Hummer Tire Deadlift World Record by successfully pulling 600 kilograms (1,322.7 kilos) at the subsequent iteration of the Shaw Classic, on August 19-20, 2023. This mark could be an astonishing 51 kilograms (112.3 kilos) over his current record achievement.
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In discussing why he wanted to increase his Hummer Tire Deadlift record by such a staggering amount, Novikov noted that he didn’t really prepare much before the pull in 2022. He believes that a greater commitment to the method this time around could only end in a dramatic leap skyward as he tries to separate himself from his peers.
“I’d also wish to go to the Shaw Classic and pull 600 kilograms (1,322.7 kilos) on this [Hummer] Tire Deadlift,” Novikov said. “Because last yr I did 549 kilograms (1,210 kilos), now I would like to drag 600 kilograms to shut the subject about this deadlift. Last time, I didn’t train it in any respect.”
Except for extending record marks, Novikov unsurprisingly plans to defend his ESM and RI titles. The 2023 ESM is scheduled for Apr. 1, 2023, in Leeds, England, and the 2023 RI will likely happen in Fall 2023 on a yet unconfirmed date. Plus, while he was unsure about scheduling, Novikov maintained he’ll appear at a measure of Giants Live competitions, too.
Last but actually not least, the strongman will vie for an additional WSM title on Apr. 18-23, 2023, in Myrtle Beach, SC. If he successfully dethrones the reigning two-time champion, Tom Stoltman, it could be Novikov’s second WSM victory in 4 years.
“What I’m planning in the intervening time is the Europe’s Strongest Man, the World’s Strongest Man, and the Rogue [Invitational],” Novikov said. “That’s what I would like. I also don’t know exactly all of the dates and events of Giants Live. So, whether it is all OK, I’ll confirm myself competing there.”
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Some athletes put their minds to their tasks and achieve nominally great things now and again. Novikov is, again, not like other athletes. When he has a goal in his crosshairs, chances are high he’ll reach it and exceed all expectations.
Featured image: @novikov_strong_wsm / Instagram