MANILA, Philippines – Hafthor Bjornsson, known for playing the role of The Mountain in Game of Thrones won the title of World’s Strongest Man on Sunday, May 6 after beating other contestants during the final event at the University of the Philippines in Quezon City.

“Want to thank all of my family, friends and fans for supporting me along the way,” Hafthor wrote on Instagram after the contest.

THE WORLD’S STRONGEST MAN 2018! . . Want to thank all of my family, friends and fans for supporting me along the way. . Special thanks to my coach @australianstrengthcoach and my nutritionist @stanefferding . . Also want to thank my sponsors, @kjotkompani @sbdapparel @roguefitness . . Congratulations to @kieliszkowskimateusz and @shawstrength for their second and third finishes! . #numberone

A post shared by Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson (@thorbjornsson) on May 6, 2018 at 4:11am PDT

Congratulations to @ThorBjornsson on taking home his first #WSM title.  . . . 2018 @TachiPalace WSM #itsmorefuninthephilippines

A post shared by The World’s Strongest Man (@theworldsstrongestman) on May 6, 2018 at 3:36am PDT

In 2nd place was Mateusz Kieliszkowski of Poland while the US’s Brian Shaw was in 3rd place.

Warm welcome 

During the press conference for the Grit & Glam event on Monday, May 7, Bjorn, together with contestants Robert Oberst and Martins Licis, talked about the warm welcome they’ve gotten during their stay in the country.

“I think all of us had a great time here. Something that we’ve mentioned to each other is the hospitality is amazing. Everyone has been so welcoming,” Robert said.

“With regards to the food, you guys have definitely taken care of us with the food. I think I put on 10 pounds when I got here,” he joked. 

Martins meanwhile said that if the competition will be held in the Philippines again, he’s definitely open to participating again. “The location for next year has not yet been decided. I as a competitor love being here. So I’ll love to come back.”

Bjorn said that to stay in shape, he preps his meals and makes it a point to eat properly. 

Asked if there a Filipino can also be in shape just like them, Bjorn said: “I really think everything is possible, If you have your mind to it, nothing is impossible. If you have a dream, and you believe you can do something, then you can.” – Rappler.com