URGENT UPDATE: Ashraf Mahrous, a celebrated Egyptian wrestler, has just shattered a world record by pulling a 635-tonne ship across water using only his teeth. The astonishing feat took place Saturday in Hurghada, Egypt, where Mahrous, known as “Kabonga,” aimed to showcase his incredible strength and determination.
This remarkable achievement comes just months after Mahrous pulled a train weighing 253 tonnes earlier this year. The 44-year-old athlete, hailing from Ismalia, is rapidly becoming a national icon, with children cheering him on in the streets as the “strong man.” His latest challenge not only adds to his accolades but also aims for official recognition from Guinness World Records.
The event unfolded along the picturesque shores of the Red Sea, where Mahrous successfully pulled the ship—a feat made even more impressive as he followed it up by pulling two vessels weighing a combined 1043 tonnes. “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,” Mahrous declared after the remarkable display.
While the current Guinness record stands at 614 tonnes, set in 2018, Mahrous is confident that his latest effort will secure him a spot in the record books once again. He plans to submit videos and photographs of the challenge to Guinness for evaluation.
To prepare for this monumental task, Mahrous adhered to an intense regimen, consuming a diet rich in protein and iron—devouring at least a dozen eggs, two whole chickens, and around 11 pounds of fish daily. His training routine consists of three two-hour sessions each day, honing his extraordinary abilities.
This isn’t Mahrous’s first attempt at pulling a ship. Six years ago, he managed to pull a 3629-tonne vessel for approximately 27 meters, showcasing his tenacity and strength. He credits a unique mental approach, stating, “I grunted and yelled as I pulled the ship, and I spoke to it, saying ‘It’s either me or you today.’” This connection, he believes, is crucial for his success.
Born with an innate talent for strength, Mahrous began showcasing his abilities as a child, lifting heavy objects for cash after his father’s job loss. He trained in various martial arts and has inspired friends and family with his record-breaking pursuits. “I was inspired by people who broke records and felt like they are no better than me,” he expressed.
Mahrous has already gained notable recognition from Guinness World Records, having previously set records for the heaviest rail pull and the fastest 100-meter road vehicle pull. His accomplishments continue to grow; just this past March, he was recognized for pulling a train and received accolades for cracking and eating 11 raw eggs in just 30 seconds.
Looking ahead, Mahrous has ambitious plans. He intends to request permission from the Egyptian presidency to pull a 239,000-tonne submarine and aspires to one day pull an airplane using only his eyelid muscles.
With each incredible feat, Ashraf Mahrous not only elevates his own status but also inspires a generation, proving that determination and strength can lead to extraordinary achievements. As the world waits for his next record-breaking attempt, Mahrous’s story continues to captivate audiences both in Egypt and around the globe.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Mahrous aims to achieve even greater heights.
