The Strongman season is well underway, as some of the most prestigious competitions are scheduled just a few weeks apart. The biggest Strongman competition in Europe is just two weeks away, and there have been some unexpected changes announced. So, with the action of 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man set to take place on April 1, 2023, at the First Direct Arena, in Leeds, England, the roster of athletes was announced a few months ago. However, one of the biggest names on the list, Pavlo Nakonechnyy, has decided to withdraw from the competition.
Representing Ukraine, Pavlo Nakonechnyy is a young strongman recognized for his impressive athletic skills and huge physique. Earning the nickname “Wide Pavlo“, he was set to cause mayhem at the 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man.
However, Pavlo Nakonechnyy’s plans have been cut short, as an injury forced him to withdraw from the 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man competition. Pavlo sustained the injury at the recent 2023 Arnold Strongman Classic, during the Max Deadlift event. Despite the fact that he prepared for this event extensively, Pavlo walked away with a knee injury, which has now affected his other competition plans as well.
Related: Strongman Pavlo Nakonechnyy Deadlifts Mind Melting 475kg
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Although Pavlo Nakonechnyy has not revealed the severity of his injury, he was already seen running around the gym on his Instagram story. So, the withdrawal seems like a prevention method, as he does not want to make the injury worse. In addition, Pavlo plans on taking part in the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition, which will take place on April 19-23, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Pavlo Nakonechnyy has been active in the International Strongman scene since 2019, managing to accumulate seven appearances since. His most notable performance was at the 2022 Giants Live World Open, where he came out victorious. However, he has never taken part in the World’s Strongest Man contest so far.
Pavlo Nakonechnyy Replacement
Giants Live was quick to announce Pavlo Nakonechnyy’s replacement, having revealed that Paul Smith will be stepping in. Seeing that the 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man will be taking place in England, Smith seemed like the perfect athlete to fill in, as he won’t have to travel to a different country.
However, Giants Live also utilized the occasion to reveal who the 14th and final athlete of the 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man will be. So, Shane Flowers will be delighted to join the greatest Strongman athletes in Europe and give his all to produce some surprising moments.
Related: Powerlifter Pavlo Nakonechnyy Deadlifts A 435kg Triple For Two Sets
Pavlo Nakonechnyy may have made a wise choice by pulling out of the 2023 Europe’s Strongest Man competition, because he plans to make history at the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition in a few short weeks. He is determined to show off his full potential at the WSM, which will undoubtedly make him stand out as one of the most exciting performers at the competition. To achieve all his goals, Pavlo will now have to devote time to his injury and come prepared to play in the WSM.