The Arnold Strongman Classic is one of the most prestigious and grueling strength competitions in the world. Named after the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, this event brings together the strongest athletes on the planet to compete in a series of physically demanding challenges.
As part of the Arnold Sports Festival, the 2025 edition of the Arnold Strongman Classic promises to be more intense than ever, with top-tier athletes, record-breaking events, and jaw-dropping feats of power. Whether you’re a die-hard strongman fan or new to the sport, here’s everything you need to know about Arnold Strongman Classic 2025.
Arnold Strongman Classic 2025
Event Overview: Dates, Location, and Format
The Arnold Strongman Classic 2025 will take place from March 1 to March 3, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. It is the premier event of the Arnold Sports Festival, which features multiple fitness competitions, expos, and fan interactions.
Unlike World’s Strongest Man, which tests endurance over multiple days, the Arnold Strongman Classic focuses on maximum strength, featuring heavier weights and shorter, high-intensity challenges. The competition follows a point-based system, where athletes earn points based on their performance in each event.
The Strongest Athletes: Who’s Competing?
The 2025 lineup includes some of the biggest names in strength sports, making it one of the most competitive fields in history. While the final list will be announced closer to the event, the following strongmen have already confirmed their participation:
Confirmed Athletes:
Hafthor Bjornsson (The Mountain) – Returning to strongman after a successful boxing stint.
Martins Licis – 2019 World’s Strongest Man, known for his agility and technique.
Oleksii Novikov – Ukrainian powerhouse with unmatched explosiveness.
Tom Stoltman – Two-time World’s Strongest Man, a dominant force in stone lifting.
Mitchell Hooper – Rising Canadian star who has dominated recent competitions.
Evan Singleton – Known for his speed, charisma, and incredible pressing power.
This mix of veterans and young stars ensures an exciting showdown!
Events to Watch: Strength, Endurance, and Mental Toughness
The Arnold Strongman Classic is famous for its brutal and unique challenges. While the official 2025 event list is yet to be confirmed, here are some classic events likely to return:
Expected Events for 2025:
The Wheel of Pain – Inspired by Conan the Barbarian, this giant wheel tests endurance and total body strength.
The Austrian Oak – A massive log lift where competitors press logs weighing up to 430 lbs (195 kg).
The Stone Medley – Athletes lift and load increasingly heavy stones onto platforms.
The Frame Carry – A heavy frame (over 1,000 lbs) must be carried across a set distance as fast as possible.
The Deadlift Ladder – Athletes must lift progressively heavier weights, showcasing raw pulling power.
The Bag Over Bar – Sandbags weighing over 60 lbs (27 kg) must be tossed over a high bar.
These events push competitors to their limits, testing their brute strength, technique, and endurance.
What’s New for Arnold Strongman Classic 2025?
Each year, the Arnold Strongman Classic brings something fresh to the competition. Here’s what’s new for 2025:
Increased Prize Money – The total prize pool has been raised to $500,000, with the champion taking home $200,000, the highest ever!
Expanded Women’s Division – Following the success of previous years, Arnold Strongwoman Classic will feature more female competitors, giving them a bigger platform.
Fan Interaction Zone – A special event where fans can meet the strongmen, take photos, and get autographs.
Live Streaming & Coverage – The event will be broadcast live on ESPN, YouTube, and Facebook, ensuring global reach.
This makes 2025 one of the biggest and most exciting years for the Arnold Strongman Classic!
Prize Money & Awards: What’s at Stake?
Winning the Arnold Strongman Classic is not just about prestige—it comes with massive rewards:
1st Place – $200,000 + Arnold Classic Trophy
2nd Place – $100,000
3rd Place – $50,000
4th & 5th Place – $25,000 each
These rewards reflect the extreme level of competition and the effort required to compete at this level.
How to Watch the Arnold Strongman Classic 2025
Whether you want to witness the strength battles live in Columbus or watch from home, here’s how you can follow the event:
Live Attendance:
Tickets are available on the official Arnold Sports Festival website.
The event takes place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Ohio.
VIP packages include exclusive seating and backstage access.
Live Streaming & TV Broadcast:
ESPN & ESPN+ – Official broadcaster for the event.
YouTube & Facebook – Free live-streaming options.
Strongman Archives & Rogue Fitness – Highlight videos and expert analysis.
