how the legendary Édouard Louis Joseph, Baron Merckx. known as Eddy Merckx acquired the nickname “The Cannibal”

Eddy Merckx, often regarded as the greatest cyclist in history, earned the nickname “The Cannibal” not only for his relentless hunger for victory but also for his unparalleled dominance in the sport. This moniker, suggested by the daughter of a teammate, perfectly encapsulated Merckx’s approach to racing—an insatiable desire to win at any cost, leaving little room for rivals to even imagine a chance at victory. With 525 career wins across an 18-year span, Merckx’s name became synonymous with cycling excellence.

A Legacy of Victories

Merckx’s career is one of sheer dominance, cementing his place in the annals of cycling history. He stands as one of only three riders to have won all five of the prestigious “Monuments” of cycling—Milan–San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Paris–Roubaix, Liège–Bastogne–Liège, and the Giro di Lombardia. What sets Merckx apart from other greats is that he didn’t just win them once—he won each of these grueling races at least twice, an achievement no other cyclist has matched. His versatility and ability to conquer both the hilly classics and the punishing cobbled roads were unparalleled.

Beyond the Monuments, Merckx’s dominance was also evident in stage races. He won the Tour de France five times, an extraordinary achievement that solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His victories in the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España further underscored his ability to conquer the most prestigious races in cycling, year after year.

Success on the Track

While Merckx is best known for his road racing prowess, his success wasn’t confined to just one discipline. He also excelled on the track, where he won world titles in the individual pursuit and the hour record. His versatility on both the road and the track made him a true all-rounder and one of the most complete athletes cycling has ever seen.

A Relentless Champion

Merckx’s approach to racing was a study in ruthless determination. Whether in the middle of a stage race or in a one-day classic, he pushed himself—and his rivals—beyond their limits. His strategy was simple but effective: dominate every race, never let up, and always take the fight to his competitors. This aggressive style, combined with his exceptional physical and mental toughness, made him a nearly unbeatable force.

His legendary performances are still talked about today, with some of his most famous wins, such as his 1969 victory in the Tour de France, where he claimed the overall title as well as the points, mountain, and best young rider classifications, becoming part of cycling lore.

The Greatest of All Time

Merckx’s career is a benchmark by which all modern cyclists are measured. His 525 victories, including 11 Grand Tours and 19 Monuments, leave a legacy that’s hard to surpass. Even decades after his retirement, no cyclist has been able to replicate his extraordinary combination of consistency, versatility, and dominance. His achievements have solidified his place as a global sporting icon, and his impact on cycling continues to inspire both professional riders and fans alike.

Eddy Merckx was not just a champion; he was a force of nature on two wheels. His insatiable appetite for victory, combined with his rare talent and tactical brilliance, earned him the nickname “The Cannibal.” Today, he remains a figure of reverence in the cycling world—his 525 victories and numerous records ensuring that his name will be forever synonymous with greatness in the sport.