Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh has left the world stunned after a video of him displaying extraordinary physical strength during a visit to a military unit went viral on social media.
The 58-year-old President was visiting soldiers at a military base on Wednesday when, in a surprising moment, he removed his suit jacket and walked towards the bench press in his formal shirt and trousers. Without changing into gym wear, he lay down on the bench and effortlessly pressed 100 kilograms, which is about 220 pounds, for 20 continuous repetitions with textbook form. The soldiers and senior officers present at the spot cheered and clapped as he completed the set without any struggle.
The video was first shared on X and Instagram on September 10, and within hours it collected millions of views, making him an internet sensation. Many users praised his fitness and discipline, saying that most young people cannot do what a 58-year-old head of state did so easily.
Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh is no ordinary politician. He is a former military officer who served as the Prime Minister of Mongolia from 2017 to 2021 before becoming President on June 25, 2021. He is known for his tough and macho personality in Mongolian politics. Interestingly, his first name Khurelsukh literally translates to Bronze Axe, which perfectly matches his strong image.
He is famous for his passion for martial arts and fitness, is the founder of Mongolia’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle club, and is also known for playing guitar in a band. In Mongolian politics, he earned the nickname Fist after an incident in 2012.
Mongolia seems to have a tradition of physically powerful leaders. Khurelsukh succeeded former President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who himself was a Sambo World Champion. While the viral clip has sparked some debate online, with a few users questioning whether the weight was actually 100 kilograms, most footage from the military unit and reports from local media have confirmed that it was indeed a full 100 kg barbell.
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