ABOUT Darren Shell

Darren Shell



Some say champions are born. Others say they are forged from adversity, pain, strong will and the desire to persevere, while others believe destiny provides the channel to success. Call it destiny, perseverance or personal fortitude with an undying will to win — whatever you call it, Eddie Swanson has it.

Raised in the Chattanooga, Tenn. projects, Eddie James Swanson grew up yearning to be big in every way. His small stature and lack of money made this a monumental challenge, but inside that little-big man was a gentle giant just waiting to show the world what he was made of. Through determination and hard work, he would show the world just how big a little guy could be. Eddie had a goal of reaching world champion status, and he didn’t stop until he achieved that goal.

Against Heavy Odds tells Eddie’s story just as it happened … in his words. He describes the nurturing love of his mother, the wondrous support of his loving wife, Stacey, and how his “life-team” helped him reach some of the loftiest heights in weightlifting history. This “little guy makes it big” tale will make you an Eddie Swanson fan and have you cheering for all the things he stands for in life.

As Eddie says … “God is my strength, without Him, I have none. With God, I can do anything.”