In the world of weightlifting, the 100 kg plus category has always been a challenge for China, with a gold medal lacking from the country's Olympic haul. However, Liu Huanhua, set to make his Games debut in Paris, is determined to change that narrative.

The 22-year-old's journey to the Olympics has been nothing short of extraordinary. His triumph at last year's World Weightlifting Championships saw him clinch two gold medals in the 102 kg category, ending a 26-year-long drought for China's men's weightlifting team in that category.

Despite moving up to the 109 kg category at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, he continued to dominate. At the Weightlifting World Cup earlier this year, Liu shattered two world records in the 102 kg category. As the Paris Olympics loom closer, Liu says his rigorous training and good form have him brimming with confidence.

"As an athlete, it's crucial to dare to compete on the battlefield. But at the end of the day, solid pre-match training is key. It's only through rigorous training that you build the foundation to compete. You'll be amazed at the energy you discover within yourself, which greatly boosts your self-confidence," said Liu.