Active in strongman from 2005 to 2012, Mikhail Koklyaev competed in seven World’s Strongest Man contests, placing 3rd in 2010 and 4th in 2009. He won the 2005 IFSA World Open and the 2007 Arnold Strongman Classic Russia. Koklyaev deadlifted 417.5 kg at the 2012 Arnold Strongman Classic and clean and jerked 232.5 kg in competition. He was particularly known for his strength in the log lift, pressing 202.5 kg at the 2008 Russian Championships.