BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – Iron Biby, the reigning log lift world champion, is set to defend his title on September 7, 2024, in Birmingham, England.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Biby was received by Minister of Sports, Youth, and Employment, Roland Anûuyirtol Somda, where he expressed his readiness to defend his championship. The meeting underscored the importance of sports as a viable pathway for the youth in Burkina Faso. Minister Somda conveyed the government’s congratulations and best wishes to Biby on behalf of the Burkinabè people.

The competition promises to attract global attention as it will be broadcast live by Radiodiffusion Télévision du Burkina (RTB). Biby, whose real name is Cheick Ahmed al-Hassan Sanou, clinched the log lift world championship by hoisting a 230kg load on October 21, 2023, in Scotland.