UPDATE: Egyptian strongman Ashraf Mahrous has just shattered a world record by pulling a staggering 635-tonne ship across the water using only his teeth. This extraordinary feat took place on Saturday, October 14, 2023, in the coastal city of Hurghada, Egypt, capturing the attention of onlookers and fans worldwide.
With sheer determination and unparalleled strength, Mahrous, also known as “Kabonga,” declared, “Today, I have come to break the world record.” This latest achievement adds to his impressive résumé of incredible pulls, including a train and a locomotive earlier this year.
The atmosphere in Hurghada was electric as Mahrous not only pulled the massive ship but also managed to pull two ships weighing approximately 1043 tonnes together. “I pulled them both, thanks to God, to prove to my friends and the whole world that God blessed me by being the strongest man in the world,” he stated with pride.
This record-breaking attempt is aimed at gaining recognition from Guinness World Records, as the current record stands at 614 tonnes, set in 2018. Mahrous plans to submit video evidence of his incredible achievement for evaluation.
To prepare for this monumental challenge, Mahrous adhered to a strict protein- and iron-rich diet, consuming a staggering dozen eggs, two whole chickens, and 11 pounds of fish daily, while training for two hours, three times a day. His past attempts have included pulling a 3629-tonne ship six years ago, proving his dedication and skill in these extraordinary challenges.
Reflecting on his approach, Mahrous shared, “I grunted and yelled as I pulled the ship, and I spoke to it, saying ‘It’s either me or you today.’” This connection to the objects he pulls is a key element of his success, as he treats them as extensions of himself.
Mahrous, a towering figure at 6 feet, 3 inches and weighing 341 pounds (155 kg), discovered his remarkable strength early in life. From carrying his friends to hauling heavy loads, he quickly gained a reputation in his hometown of Ismalia. His childhood experiences led him to offer his lifting services for cash, showcasing his raw talent from a young age.
Previously recognized by Guinness for multiple achievements, including the heaviest rail pull of 253 tonnes and the fastest 100-meter vehicle pull, Mahrous continues to push boundaries. He has also set records for pulling a 15,730-kilogram truck and cracking and eating 11 raw eggs in just 30 seconds.
Despite his accomplishments, Mahrous remains focused on future challenges. He intends to submit a request to the Egyptian presidency for permission to attempt pulling a 239,000-tonne submarine and dreams of pulling a plane using just his eyelid muscles.
This latest triumph not only highlights Mahrous’s incredible physical abilities but also serves as an inspiration for many. His journey from a young boy helping others with heavy lifting to becoming a world record holder exemplifies determination and passion.
As Mahrous continues to break records, the world watches to see what extraordinary feats will come next from this remarkable athlete.
