World’s Strongest Man has shared a touching video tribute to the late Pa O’Dwyer, featuring a number of his friends and competitors.
Patrick “Pa” O’Dwyer tragically passed away on January 3rd earlier this year. He was 40 years old.
The beloved Irish strongman was not only known for his accolades in the sport – becoming the 2018 UK’s Strongest Man and winning the Ireland’s Strongest Man competition in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021 – but also for his social media presence. O’Dwyer had amassed thousands of followers across the globe thanks to his videos speaking out in support of those who needed it, and for his catchphrase “Don’t be a c***”.
O’Dwyer’s passing left an indelible mark on the world of strongman, with his loss still being felt. Now, following the 2026 World’s Strongest Man competition in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, many of the competitors have paid tribute to O’Dwyer in a video package shared to the World’s YouTube channel.
The video features personal tributes from many of Pa’s friends in the sport, such as Eddie Jo Williams, Evan Singleton, and the 2026 competition’s eventual winner, Mitchell Hooper. You can check out the full video below:
The video’s comments section has since been flooded with comments from fans also paying tribute to the late strongman. “Never thought that I could miss someone I’ve never met in person so much,” one person wrote, with a second adding: “You are missed, Pa! God’s strongest man now.”
During this year’s competition, Pa was posthumously honoured with The Jimmy Pollock Award – presented to a competitor who embodies the spirit of strongman. The honour was named after the beloved crew member, Jimmy Pollock, and is awarded to those who have displayed exceptional sportsmanship, camaraderie, personality, and kindness – regardless of just a podium performance.
Former World’s Strongest Man Eddie Hall accepted the award on behalf of Pa at this year’s competition.
Hall has worked tirelessly to ensure O’Dwyer’s family is financially supported following his death. Not only has Hall launched a GoFundMe fundraising page – which has raised over £200,000 from more than 9,000 donations – but ‘The Beast’ has revealed that he is also working to continue selling all of Pa’s official merchandise, with all profits going to the Irishman’s family.
Once again, our thoughts continue to go out to the family, friends, and fans of Pa O’Dwyer. #DBAC
Featured image credit: YouTube/WorldsStrongestMan (screenshots)
