2022 World’s Strongest Man: Oleksii Novikov Breaks Flintstone Barbell World Record With 246kg (542.3lb) Lift

The return of the Flintstone Barbell was much beloved by strongman athletes and fans. It’s considered one of the most classic and old-school events that can be run in a strongman competition. The lift functions essentially as an overhead press or behind-the-neck press.

The world record breaking lift in question came after an epic battle between Oleksii Novikov and fellow strongman competitor Tom Stoltman. Stoltman is another front runner at the World’s Strongest Man and a true threat to the first place title. Both strongmen engaged into a back and forth battle during the Flintstone Barbell. With both Novikov and Stoltman neck and neck for title of World’s Strongest Man – they each continued to push each other for the extra point gained by winning the Flintstone Barbell event.

Ultimately, the Flintstone Barbell event was pushed up to the 246 kilogram weight – a world record setting lift. Oleksii Novikov attempted the lift and succeeded – followed by Stoltman who ultimately failed the attempt. This gave Novikov the win as well as the world record.

Will Oleksii Novikov win the 2022 World’s Strongest Man?

There’s no question that Oleksii Novikov is one of the most dominant strongmen currently competing in the sport. While he had some rough luck in the 2021 WSM, he came back with a vengeance this year – proving that he still is a name to keep an eye on at WSM.

Kicking off the 2022 World’s Strongest Man, Oleksii Novikov wasted no time proving his dominance. He won both events in his group during day one of the qualifier rounds. He continued to showcase impressive lifts across the remaining days – earning him qualification into the finals.

Oleksii Novikov continued his strong campaign into the finals. He placed third in the first event of the day (KNAACK Giant’s Medley). And he finished the day on a high note, clinching first place in the final two events (Deadlift and Flinstone Barbell) – he is currently in the lead on the score sheet going into day two of the finals. Though Tom Stoltman is trailing behind him just by just under two points. So it’s still anyone’s game depending on how the final day unfolds.

2022 WSM Finals Day 2 Schedule

• Bus Pull — 8:00 a.m. PST
• Reign Total Body Fuel Power Stairs — 11:00 a.m. PST
• Atlas Stones at 2:00 p.m. PST

Generation Iron will continue to provide coverage of the 2022 World’s Strongest Man including announcing the winner of the entire event later today. Stay tuned to the Generation Iron Fitness Network for news and updates on all things bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness.