Francesco Columbu, a multifaceted individual, was an Italian actor, author, chiropractor, and former Amateur Boxer, Professional Bodybuilder, and World's Strongest Man competitor. He formed a lasting bond with Arnold Schwarzenegger, whom he met in 1965, and frequently appeared alongside him in small cinematic roles during the height of Schwarzenegger's fame.
Columbu made his professional bodybuilding debut in 1968, consistently competing at the highest level in the under 200lbs category. His remarkable achievements were documented in the 1977 documentary film Pumping Iron, which showcased his impressive physique and athletic prowess.
In 1981, Columbu won the prestigious IFBB Mr. Olympia competition, becoming the first under 200lbs winner, and subsequently retired from competitive bodybuilding. He was widely regarded as one of the world's strongest men, holding numerous powerlifting world records.
Columbu's impressive feats of strength included breaking a hot water bottle by inflating it orally, lifting vehicles onstage while another performer changed a tire, and deadlifting an astonishing 320 kg (700 lbs). These incredible achievements were captured in the 2002 documentary film Raw Iron: The Making of Pumping Iron, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of Pumping Iron.
