Mitchell Hooper Wins World’s Strongest Man Title for Second Time

Mitchell Hooper's Remarkable Triumph in 2026

Mitchell Hooper has firmly established himself in the annals of strength sports by winning the 2026 SBD World’s Strongest Man title, held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This victory marks a triumphant return for the 30-year-old Canadian, who previously held the title in 2023.

Hooper Outlasts Nel in a Thrilling Finish

The competition was exceedingly close, with Hooper finishing just two points ahead of South Africa's defending champion, Rayno Nel. Hooper's journey to the championship was particularly exciting following his earlier success at the 2026 Arnold Strongman Classic, where he secured his fourth consecutive victory.

After winning the World’s Strongest Man title for the first time in 2023, Hooper faced stiff competition in the following years, finishing second in 2024 and third in 2025. This year, however, he returned with renewed determination and showcased his strength in a tightly contested contest.

The Path to Victory

Hooper and Nel entered the finals in the top two competitive positions. Nel made a strong start with three event wins in the Flip and Carry, Deadlift, and Titan’s Toss categories. Though he maintained a strong lead, Hooper had consistently strong performances, often finishing in second place.

As the competition progressed into Day 2, Hooper managed to gain some crucial points by tying for second in the Max Log Lift, an event that he ultimately won outright, with Nel placing third. Heading into the final round, the Atlas Stones, Hooper was just two points behind Nel.

The Final Challenge: Atlas Stones

In the finale, Hooper delivered an outstanding performance, becoming the only athlete to successfully place all five stones, while Nel, under pressure, dropped to a fifth-place finish. Hooper's second-place performance in the same event was enough to clinch him the title.

Reflecting on his win, Hooper humbly acknowledged the role of luck in strongman competitions, stating, "Sometimes, in strongman, it's not who's the clear cut best. Sometimes the breaks gotta go your way. I've been extremely lucky to have a number of breaks go my way."

Future Broadcast

For fans who wish to revisit the thrilling moments of the competition, CBS is set to air highlights from the event later this summer on June 20, at 2 p.m. ET. Check local listings for more updated information and to relive the excitement.

Brett Williams, an NASM-certified trainer and senior editor at Men's Health, also contributed insights into the competition. Williams, a former pro football player, has covered fitness extensively in his journalistic efforts.