The ‘Lion of Limassol’ Roars into the Record Books
In a display that captured the hearts of his homeland, Ilya Khazov, the ‘Lion of Limassol’, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new Guinness World Record. On February 20, Khazov took on a formidable challenge that showcased not only his physical prowess but also his indomitable spirit.
With an 80-kilogramme anvil in tow, Khazov had one minute to leap over a rope as many times as possible. Astonishingly, he surpassed the benchmark of 15 jumps, completing 21 in just half the allotted time. The event, held before an enthralled live audience and officiated by Guinness World Record judges, marked a dream realized for Khazov. “Setting foot on that stage and making history was surreal,” he expressed post-event.
Despite his imposing stature of 6 foot 5 and weighing 180kg, Khazov’s journey to this pinnacle moment was fraught with challenges. His path to becoming a strongman has been as much about resilience as it is about strength. Having placed impressively in the Strongman Champions League and never falling below tenth in any professional contest, Khazov’s dedication to his sport is evident.
More than just an athlete, Khazov is a polyglot IT Project Manager who has embraced Cyprus as his home. His love for the country is palpable as he competes with the Cypriot flag held high. “When I step onto that platform, I’m not just competing for myself. I’m competing for Cyprus,” he stated, reflecting on the pride he feels representing his adopted nation.
Khazov’s resilience has seen him through personal health battles, including a pulmonary embolism and various injuries. Yet, his resolve has remained unshaken. With his eyes set on future strongman events, he remains committed to his rigorous training regimen and to bringing honor to Cyprus.
As Khazov continues to break barriers and push the limits of human strength, his story transcends the realm of strongman competitions. It is a tale of perseverance, national pride, and the power of dreams—a narrative that will undoubtedly inspire many for years to come.
