Eddie Hall and fellow World`s Strongest Man champion Mariusz Pudzianowski hit the scales together, totaling 601 lbs (approximately 272.6 kg) ahead of their anticipated MMA fight. The former strongman competitors are scheduled to face off tomorrow night in the co-main event of KSW 105 in Gliwice, Poland.
Pudzianowski, a five-time World`s Strongest Man winner, will serve as Eddie Hall`s opponent for his professional MMA debut. This will be Pudzianowski`s 28th professional combat sports appearance.
Hall has significantly dedicated himself to training since his unconventional 2-on-1 bout against the Neffati Brothers last year, achieving remarkable physical condition. The 37-year-old weighed in at 334 lbs (about 151.5 kg or 23 stone, eight pounds) for the fight in Poland, showcasing an impressive transformation where he shed 98 lbs (roughly 44.5 kg or seven stone).
Meanwhile, the 48-year-old Pudzianowski registered a weight of 267 lbs (around 121.1 kg or 19 stone) for this major confrontation.
Both fighters completed their official weigh-ins earlier today, setting the stage for their massive fight tomorrow evening. The final step was the ceremonial weigh-in before a large audience.
Following the official proceedings, they engaged in a humorous staredown, much to the enjoyment of the enthusiastic fans present.
The two giants lightheartedly acknowledged their current physiques by deliberately protruding their stomachs during the face-off.
Earlier in the week, the 48-year-old Pudzianowski sent a stern warning to Hall, promising to test his endurance. He stated, “Eddie, you are facing a tough challenge. I won`t surrender easily. You know I fight to the finish. You will experience what it feels like to run out of air. This is MMA, not boxing.”
Hall, however, maintained that his rigorous training over the past year has prepared him to push his cardiovascular limits during the fight.
In an interview with talkSPORT, the 37-year-old explained, “I`ve been training with four-minute rounds. I`m not getting tired; I`m large and powerful. I`ve never heard a fighter wish they were weaker for a match. Therefore, I have no plans to reduce weight, muscle mass, or anything else. I can fight, I have the stamina, and I am comfortable competing at this weight.”
Elton Marrow