Video 27: Eddy Merckx - The Cannibal Who Conquered Cycling | Meet Our Sport GOATs

 He didn’t just win—he devoured the sport. In this episode of Meet Our Sport Goat's, we ride through the intensity, hunger, and sheer dominance of Eddy Merckx – the man who redefined what it meant to compete. Like, subscribe, and hit that bell – let’s hit the road.

Before the yellow jerseys and nicknames like The Cannibal, he was just a boy on a bike with an appetite for greatness. This isn’t just the story of cycling. This is the story of Eddy Merckx – the cannibal who conquered it all.

Who is Eddy Merckx?
Eddy Merckx, often called “The Cannibal,” is regarded by many as the greatest cyclist to ever live. His relentless desire to win and an almost insatiable competitive spirit set him apart from every other athlete in the history of cycling. Merckx didn’t just participate in races — he dominated them with a ferocity and consistency that changed the sport forever. His name is synonymous with excellence, endurance, and an uncompromising will to conquer every challenge on two wheels.

Childhood And Early Life
Born on June 17, 1945, in the small village of Meensel-Kiezegem in Belgium, Eddy’s connection to cycling began early. At the age of eight, he received his first bicycle and quickly developed a deep passion for riding. As a child, he was determined, hardworking, and showed a natural talent that few could match. By his teenage years, he was already making waves in the amateur cycling scene, demonstrating the kind of dedication and discipline that hinted at a future champion. At sixteen, Eddy was competing seriously, and by nineteen, he had already won the amateur world championship. His early training was intense and focused, often riding for hours each day to build the stamina and strength that would become his trademark. Beyond physical ability, Eddy’s mental toughness and hunger to be the best drove him to push boundaries that many thought impossible.

Career And Achievements
Eddy Merckx’s professional career is a story of unparalleled success and versatility. From his debut, he showed an ability to excel in every kind of race, whether it was a one-day classic, a stage race, or the legendary Grand Tours. He won the Tour de France an astonishing five times, a feat matched by only a few. Similarly, he conquered the Giro d’Italia five times and was crowned World Champion three times. His unique achievement of winning all five Monuments — cycling’s most prestigious one-day races — demonstrated his extraordinary range as a cyclist, able to tackle different terrains and race strategies with equal skill. Over his career, Eddy amassed an incredible 525 race victories, a record that still stands today. One of his most famous feats was breaking the hour record in 1972 by cycling 49.431 kilometers in a single hour, showcasing not just power but incredible pacing and endurance. His aggressive racing style was both a psychological and physical weapon; he attacked relentlessly, breaking away from the pack and leaving rivals in the dust.

The Goat Mentality

Eddy Merckx’s approach to cycling was fueled by an extraordinary level of focus, determination, and an unyielding will to win. He once said, “Ride as much or as little, or as long or as short as you feel. But ride,” a simple yet powerful statement that reveals his belief in consistent effort and passion as the foundation for success. For Merckx, cycling wasn’t just a sport — it was a way of life, where the bicycle became an extension of himself, a curious vehicle powered by both body and mind.

What truly set Eddy apart was his refusal to settle for anything less than victory. He famously said, “I don’t win by being the fastest; I win by being the one who refuses to lose.” This mindset gave him a psychological edge over competitors. It wasn’t just raw speed that brought him success — it was his relentless mental toughness, his refusal to give up even when the odds were against him.

Merckx’s hunger for victory drove his relentless training routines and race-day strategies. He would push himself to the absolute limit, giving every ounce of energy until the very last pedal stroke. This obsession with perfection extended beyond physical conditioning — he was meticulous about refining every detail of his technique, equipment, and tactics.

His mental strength was as impressive as his physical prowess, making him one of the most complete and dominant cyclists in history. Eddy Merckx’s mindset is a testament to how passion, focus, and an unwavering refusal to lose can shape a champion. It’s a lesson in dedication that continues to inspire athletes across all sports.

Life Beyond Cycling

After retiring from professional racing, Eddy Merckx didn’t step away from cycling—instead, he embraced new roles as a mentor, race organizer, and global ambassador for the sport. His deep knowledge and years of experience made him an invaluable guide to younger athletes, helping shape the next generation of cycling champions. Merckx’s passion for the sport extended beyond competition, as he worked tirelessly to promote cycling’s growth and development worldwide.

In addition to mentoring and organizing, Eddy launched his own brand of bicycles. Combining his expert understanding of cycling technology with a passion for innovation, Merckx’s bike brand has become respected for quality and performance. This venture reflects his commitment to advancing the sport, providing riders with top-tier equipment shaped by the insights of a true champion.

Eddy Merckx’s influence transcends race results. He has helped elevate cycling’s global profile, inspiring countless fans and aspiring riders. Revered not only in his native Belgium but internationally, Merckx is celebrated for his racing style—marked by honor, fierce intensity, and deep respect for the sport. His legacy is as much about how he competed as what he achieved.

Today, Eddy Merckx continues to be a vital figure in cycling, representing the values of dedication, innovation, and sportsmanship. His post-retirement contributions ensure that his impact will endure, inspiring new generations to race with passion and integrity.

Legacy And What’s Next

Eddy Merckx is more than just a cycling legend—he is the ultimate benchmark for greatness in the sport. His name is synonymous with courage, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout his career, Merckx displayed a spirit and determination that set him apart from his peers, defining an era and creating a legacy that continues to inspire cyclists worldwide.

What truly made Eddy Merckx extraordinary was his combination of tactical genius and extraordinary versatility. He could dominate in any terrain or race format, whether it was grueling mountain climbs, fast-paced sprints, or long, exhausting tours. This versatility made him almost unbeatable and raised the standard for what a professional cyclist could achieve.

Decades after his final race, Merckx’s achievements remain unmatched and continue to resonate with sports fans and aspiring cyclists. His records, including multiple Tour de France wins and countless other prestigious victories, are still held up as the gold standard. But beyond the trophies and titles, it’s his mindset and relentless spirit that truly define his greatness.

The name “Merckx” stands for more than cycling success; it represents the heart of what it means to be a true champion. Courage in the face of challenge, unwavering dedication to one’s craft, and the drive to push limits beyond what seems possible—these qualities make Eddy Merckx a timeless figure in sports history.

If Eddy’s relentless drive fired you up, hit like, subscribe, and comment: “I never coast.”

He didn’t slow down for anyone—and that’s how legends are made. If his journey inspired you, smash that like button, subscribe for more Goat profiles, and tell us who should be next. Armstrong? Pogacar? Cavendish? Drop your pick in the comments. See you in the next one!