'Iranian Hulk's' monster Isis threat

Iran's Hulk is vowing to take on ISIS. Photo / Instagram

An Iranian bodybuilder known as The Persian Hercules has announced that he wants to take on the Islamic State, and travel to Syria to defend besieged mosques.

Sajad Gharibi, a 24-year-old weightlifter, has become a social media star owing to his startling physique. He appears to revel in the attention drawn by his bulging 23-stone frame, showing off news clippings and celebrity mentions to his 10,000 Instagram followers.

Jamie Foxx, the Oscar-winning actor, commented: "The guy doesn't even need CGI... #RealLifeHulk" - remarks which seemed to delight Mr Gharibi, who reposted them to his fans.

His posts, mainly in Persian, detail how he wants to volunteer with Iranian forces battling Isil, and guard Shia mosques being destroyed by the Sunni terrorists, according to remarks translated by the BBC.

But he also shows off a softer side.

In one image he poses, bizarrely, with a can of Fanta. In another he shows off his breakfast - eggs and tea.

On July 4 he sent his best wishes to Americans celebrating Independence Day.

And he also appeared to have been disappointed by a friend or loved one.

"Remember how I told you if you're humble and love people, they'll crush you?" he said. "That's me right now."

Despite his hatred of Isil, Mr Gharibi has had to deny rumours that he was the so-called "Bulldozer," an Isil executioner with a remarkably similar physique.

On Facebook, readers reacted with a mix of shock and scepticism.

"The answer to our prayers has finally arrived. Why don't you send in Captain America and Batman and Robin while you're at it?" wrote Adrian Morton.

Some doubted that the giant would prove to be an effective soldier.

"Whilst I think this guy is TRULY impressive, I worry that his size will make him SOO easy to spot. He'll be in SOOO much more danger.

"Thanks so much, Hulk, but we think you'll be better off at home," Marian Leed posted on the site.

Sandie Chapman agreed: "I doubt he will be much help. I really don't think there is much hand to hand combat with Isis fighters. They would be better with the help of sharp shooters."

She added: "I don't think these muscle bound people move very fast either!"