For the past several years, the Shaw Classic has stood as one of the premier proving grounds in the world of strength sports. Founded by four-time World’s Strongest Man Brian Shaw, the event has gained a reputation not just for its brutal tests of strength, but for its commitment to celebrating the sport in its purest form. In 2025, the competition crowned a new champion—and potentially, the future face of strongman.
The 2025 Shaw Classic, held at the Blue Arena in Loveland, Colorado on the weekend of August 16-17, saw sixteen of the world’s elite strongmen compete across eight grueling events. It was a weekend defined by drama, determination, and razor-thin margins. When the dust settled, Evan Singleton emerged victorious with 93.5 points—edging out Lucas Hatton (92.5 points) and Thomas Evans (88 points) in one of the closest finishes in the event’s history.
This year’s competition marked the latest evolution of the contest now widely referred to as the “Strongest Man on Earth” title. And Singleton earned that label in every sense.
From the opening log press to the final run of the Manhood Stones, Singleton was a picture of resilience. While others faltered under the weight of the Safe Yoke Carry or struggled in the Side Handle Deadlift, Singleton delivered a consistently powerful showing, proving that modern strongman requires more than brute strength—it demands strategy, precision, and unwavering mental toughness.
“It was an unbelievable lineup this year,” Singleton said after the win. “Every guy out there pushed me to my limit. But that’s what this sport is about. I’m proud to bring this title home.”
His ascent marks a significant moment in the post-Brian Shaw era. With Shaw now retired from competition but still actively shaping the sport through his namesake event, the torch is being passed to athletes like Singleton, who represent the next generation of dominant champions.
Lucas Hatton, who finished just one point behind, also turned in a standout performance and solidified himself as a major contender moving forward. Third-place finisher Thomas Evans proved he belongs on the sport’s biggest stage, showing grit and consistency across every event.
As the competition concluded and fans poured out of the Blue Arena, one sentiment lingered: a new chapter has begun. The Shaw Classic continues to set the standard, and Evan Singleton’s victory has set the tone for what comes next.
