Greek Strongman Archives - www.oldtimestrongman.com

Dimitrios Tofalos 1906

Posted on Tuesday, September 1st, 2015 by John Wood

A look at Dimitrios Tofalos lifting an excellent globe barbell… this is thought to be taken sometime in 1906 when Tofalos was training for what would later become known as the ‘Intercalated Games.‘ Tofalos won the “two arm lifting event” with a successful effort with 142.5 KG on his third attempt.

Dimitrios N. Zeus

Posted on Saturday, July 25th, 2015 by John Wood

Unfortunately Dimitrios N. Zeus’ story has been lost to the sands of time. The old postcard bearing his name says that he was the World’s Strongest Man AND a film star. By his large, strong hands, looks like he also bent more than a bit of steel in his day.

Gust Lessis: A Smashing Feat

Posted on Saturday, August 20th, 2011 by John Wood

Around 1925 or so, the Greek Strongman and wrestler Gust Lessis, wanted a shot at the lightweight boxing crown (which was held by Paul “The Astoria Assassin” Berlenbach at the time.)

In order to show that he was worthy of such an opportunity he gave a demonstration of strength before his grappling matches: while supporting an 500-pound slab of concrete on his chest his manager smashed it to bits with a sledge hammer. Say what you will about supporting feats, but this one is still no walk in the park!