Rayno Nel, a 30-year-old South African, has etched his name in history by becoming the first African to win the World’s Strongest Man title in 2025. His victory, achieved on his debut in the competition, was a remarkable feat that surprised even himself. ‘I didn’t expect to stand on top of that podium this year,’ Nel shared in an interview with BBC World Service. ‘It still feels unreal.’
Nel’s journey to the title is nothing short of extraordinary. After abandoning his dream of playing professional rugby, he transitioned to strongman competitions in 2023. Growing up in Upington, a remote town in Northern Cape province, Nel had limited exposure to the sport. However, his passion for competitive sports and adrenaline-fueled challenges led him to strongman training. Balancing a full-time job as an electrical engineer, Nel dedicated every spare moment to his rigorous training regimen, consuming up to 6,000 calories daily to fuel his 148kg, 191cm frame.
Nicknamed ‘The Rhino from South Africa,’ Nel’s physical prowess and mental fortitude were on full display during the competition. In the final held in Sacramento, California, he narrowly edged out three-time champion Tom Stoltman of Great Britain by half a point. Nel’s performance included a staggering 490kg deadlift and a strong showing in the Flintstone Press, despite a nerve-wracking moment where his lead was nearly erased. The final event, the Atlas Stones, saw Nel secure third place, clinching the overall victory by the slimmest of margins.
Nel’s triumph has not only brought pride to his homeland but also highlighted the potential for strongman competitions in Africa. He hopes to bring the World’s Strongest Man event back to the continent, emphasizing its rich heritage in southern Africa. As he looks to the future, Nel aims to defend his title and continue inspiring others with his story of perseverance and dedication.