Hadadi, the 2012 Olympic silver medalist, controlled the competition from the opening round and, with victory secured as he entered the ring for the competition’s final throw, the 34-year-old gentle giant released a 65.95m championships record to collect his sixth continental title.

“I’m not so young anymore, so I’m taking it step by step,” Hadadi, whose early-season 67.19m effort in Chula Vista, California, 10 days ago has him sitting third on the world season’s list, told iaaf.org. “I’m still waiting on who will succeed me in Asia.”

His compatriot Behnam Shiri came closest, hitting 60.89m in round two. Still, each of Hadidi’s five measured throws sailed further, underscoring his Asian dominance.

Jordan’s Musab Al-Momani won the bronze medal with a throw of 58.27m.