In a remarkable display of strength and determination, Ilya Khazov, known affectionately as the ‘Lion of Limassol’, recently secured a prestigious Guinness World Record, garnering applause and admiration from Cyprus and beyond.
On February 20, Khazov captivated audiences with his awe-inspiring performance, shattering expectations and etching his name into the annals of history.
The challenge was daunting: Khazov was tasked with holding an 80-kilogram anvil and jumping over a rope as many times as possible within a tight timeframe of 60 seconds. Undeterred by the challenge, Khazov exceeded all expectations, achieving an impressive 21 jumps in just 30 seconds, well surpassing the required 15 jumps. His triumphant moment was witnessed by a live audience and officially recognized by Guinness World Record judges.
Reflecting on his achievement, Khazov expressed his elation, stating, “This record attempt was a dream come true for me. Setting foot on that stage and making history was surreal.”
However, Khazov’s journey to this remarkable feat was marked by perseverance and resilience. Standing tall at 6 foot 5 and weighing 180 kilograms, Khazov defies the conventional image of an athlete. Yet, it is precisely his larger-than-life presence that has endeared him to fans worldwide.
“Competing for Cyprus means everything to me,” Khazov emphasized. “I’m basically Cypriot; this is my home.”
An IT Project Manager by profession, Khazov is multilingual, fluent in English, Russian (his country of birth), and Greek, the language of his adopted home for over three decades.
Khazov’s deep connection with Cyprus fuels his passion for representing the country on the global stage. “When I step onto that platform, I’m not just competing for myself. I’m competing for Cyprus,” he affirmed.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including overcoming a pulmonary embolism and battling through injuries, Khazov’s determination has remained steadfast. “I’ve had setbacks, but I never lost sight of my goals,” he asserted. “With the support of my team and unwavering self-belief, I knew I could achieve anything.”
Looking ahead, Khazov is already eyeing his next challenge. As he continues to train rigorously for upcoming strongman competitions, his commitment to excellence remains resolute. “This record is just the beginning,” Khazov declared. “I’m ready to take on whatever comes my way and make Cyprus proud.”
In the world of strongman competitions, Khazov stands tall not only for his extraordinary feats of strength but also for the indomitable spirit that propels him forward. As he continues to inspire those around him, Khazov’s legacy will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of strength sports.
