Over the years, Manikuttan has represented the UAE in several international competitions. His career reached another milestone in 2022 when he won the Asian Classic Powerlifting Championship. In 2023 and 2024, he continued his winning streak, securing gold in the World Powerlifting Championship in Virginia in the 82kg master category.
Dubai,TNM: For eight consecutive years, T.P. Manikuttan has held the title of 'Power Man of UAE,' proving that age is just a number. Even at 63, his strength and dedication to powerlifting remain unshaken. A native of Alappuzha, Kerala, Manikuttan has been a fitness trainer at Giant Gym in Dubai’s Al Qusais for the past 28 years. His relentless training and disciplined lifestyle have led him to countless achievements in the world of powerlifting, both in India and the UAE. When Manikuttan steps onto the podium, draped in a gold medal, the UAE national anthem echoes through the stadium—an extraordinary moment of pride for a migrant athlete representing his adopted nation. This is not a one-time feat; he has competed and triumphed in multiple competitions for the UAE over the years.
A Journey Rooted in Strength
Manikuttan's passion for bodybuilding began at the age of 17. By 20, he was crowned 'Mr. Alappuzha,' later securing titles like 'Most Muscular Man of Alappuzha' and 'Kerala Shree.' He also ranked fourth in the prestigious 'Bharath Shree' competition. At 22, he transitioned into powerlifting, and by 23, he was representing Kerala at a national event in Bihar, finishing fourth—just the beginning of his remarkable journey.
Between 1992 and 1995, Manikuttan rewrote several junior and senior powerlifting records in South India, including a national record in squatting. Though he dominated India’s national scene, financial constraints prevented him from competing internationally at the time. The dream of representing his country on a global stage had to wait.
A New Chapter in the UAE
Fate had other plans. In 1997, Manikuttan’s friend Suresh Pai, a fellow fitness enthusiast, helped him relocate to Dubai. He began working as a coach at a gym in Al Qusais while continuing to compete. That same year, he won the 'Power Man of UAE' title at powerlifting championships in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. He went on to claim the title for an incredible eight consecutive years, in addition to securing multiple gold medals in the UAE Powerlifting Championship.
In 1998, the World Police Meet took place in Dubai, and Manikuttan was invited to coach participants. While serving as a coach, he was also offered a chance to compete—a golden opportunity he grabbed without hesitation. Representing Dubai, he stunned the world by defeating powerlifters from Russia and the USA, clinching the gold medal.
.jpeg)
A Decorated Career in Global Powerlifting
Over the years, Manikuttan has represented the UAE in several international competitions. His career reached another milestone in 2022 when he won the Asian Classic Powerlifting Championship. In 2023 and 2024, he continued his winning streak, securing gold in the World Powerlifting Championship in Virginia in the 82kg master category. Manikuttan credits his unwavering success to the support of his wife, Jyothi, and children. His son, Ashwanth, is following in his father’s footsteps in the fitness world, while his daughter, Anagha, has found her passion in photography. According to Manikuttan, the UAE offers immense support for powerlifting and strength sports, allowing athletes like him to thrive. As he gears up for the upcoming Asian Powerlifting Championship, his journey is a testament to the fact that discipline, perseverance, and passion can overcome any barrier—including age.
