Rapper ST, real name Alexander Stepanov, shares his journey on a televised fitness competition in Africa
Alexander Stepanov, known on stage as ST, opened up about a dramatic physical transformation he underwent while competing on the reality show Stars in Africa. He revealed that his weight dropped by roughly 8 kilograms during the season, a change he attributes to a disciplined routine and intense daily workouts. The rapper also reflected on his pre-show appearance, recalling how different the person in the early photos looked compared to how he felt once the project started. He described the shift as a clear outside perspective on his own body as he prepared for a demanding adventure.
When ST joined the show, his weight hovered around 95 kilograms. After the finale, where he emerged as the season winner, his weight settled at 87.6 kilograms. He credits consistent exercise and a steady fitness cadence for the noticeable drop. Even after filming ended, ST continues to protect his gains by dedicating at least 20 minutes to morning activity each day. The routine is not merely a short-term effort but a sustained habit aimed at maintaining health and performance.
Speaking about the post-show period, ST noted that returning to the gym helped him cement the improvements achieved on camera. The habit has become part of his everyday life, reinforcing the gains from his African experience and shaping his overall approach to fitness and endurance.
The show crowned ST as the champion after a grueling final challenge. The prize for the winner was 5 million rubles, a substantial reward that recognizes the contestants’ endurance and ingenuity. The last test required the stars to construct a ladder from collected steps inside a labyrinth, demonstrating teamwork, problem-solving, and physical stamina. Maria Pogrebnyak finished last, while ST reached the top first, with Natalya Bardo securing the second place. The dramatic finish highlighted how resilience and strategy can lead to victory in challenging environments.
Beyond the headline moments, the experience also shaped ST’s views on how to allocate his winnings. He has spoken about turning the prize into opportunities that extend beyond personal comfort, exploring investments or projects that could amplify his platform and influence. The African chapter remains a meaningful milestone in his career, reflecting both the physical discipline required by the show and the broader story of a performer navigating fame, health, and ambition on an international stage.