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Powerlifter Jessica Buettner (76KG) Captures 4 National Records During 2022 CPU Nationals

Robert Zeglinski — Mon, 16 May 2022 22:36:08 +0000

Powerlifter Jessica Buettner might be one of the sport’s current household names. She again showed why during a commanding performance at the 2022 Canadian Powerlifting Union (CPU) Nationals.

On May 13, 2022, Buettner — who competes in the 76-kilogram weight class — broke four raw Canadian National records with a 217.5-kilogram (479.5-pound) squat, a 107.5-kilogram (237-pound) bench press, a 252.5-kilogram (566.7-pound) deadlift, and 577.5-kilogram total. Buettner performed the squat in a lifting belt, wrist wraps, and knee wraps. Meanwhile, she did her bench press wearing just a belt and wrist wraps, and her deadlift with only a belt.

Notably, while unofficial because they didn’t occur in an international competition, Buettner’s marks on the squat, deadlift, and total exceeded the respective current International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Open Classic World Records for her weight class. Buettner posted a video that features all four of her stellar lifts to her Instagram profile:

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A post shared by Jess Buettner (@djessicabuettner)

Here’s a complete overview of Buettner’s stats from this meet:

Jessica Buettner (76KG) | 2022 CPU Nationals

Squat (Raw) — 217.5 kilograms (479.5 pounds) | Canadian National Record | Unofficial IPF World Record
Bench Press (Raw) — 107.5 kilograms (237 pounds) | Canadian National Record
Deadlift (Raw) — 252.5 kilograms (556.7 pounds) | Canadian National Record | Unofficial IPF World Record
Total (Raw) — 577.5 kilograms (1,273.2 pounds) | Canadian National Record | Unofficial IPF World Record

Buettner’s dominant performance adds to the champion powerlifter’s growing impressive rap sheet. Since she began her professional career in 2014, Buettner has now won 16 of 18 sanctioned meets. In those two non-first place results, she finished in second place. Plus, Buettner’s win at the 2022 CPU Nationals means she has won four straight competitions outright. That top-notch streak dates back to September 2019.

In addition to footage of each of her lifts, Buettner shared a highlight video of her performance from White Lights Media. Check it out below:

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A post shared by Jess Buettner (@djessicabuettner)

The Best-Laid Plans

Buettner did not mince her words at her pride over her new achievements. The Canadian athlete had been hard at work for a great deal of 2022 to reach this point, and her efforts were finally visible on a sanctioned lifting platform. With some of her unfortunate obstacles, she’s also certainly no stranger to pushing through adversity.

“I had a plan and stuck to it, and now it’s time to train for worlds in four weeks,” Buettner wrote. “I never take any performances for granted no matter how well training has been going, mostly on account of diabetes, so it is amazing to get the chance to execute and put it all together on the platform.”

A continued summer season of achievement might be on the horizon for Buettner. As she alluded to, the 2022 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships are right around the corner on June 6-12, 2022, in Sun City, South Africa. As the reigning champion in the 76-kilogram weight class, she’ll defend her title there.

While basking in her victory, Buettner will likely take some appropriate time to rest. Then, in a few weeks, it could be time for this elite powerlifter to add some new world records to her resume.

Featured image: @djessicabuettner on Instagram

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Powerlifter Shahram Saki Squats 510 Kilograms, More Than the Raw W/Wraps All-Time World Record, in Training

Robert Zeglinski — Thu, 12 May 2022 22:33:20 +0000

When it comes to lifting incredible amounts of weight, Shahram Saki should get comfortable in the spotlight. The Iranian powerlifter’s latest mark might be his most outstanding strength achievement yet.

On May 12, 2022, Saki shared footage of himself squatting 510 kilograms (1,124.36 pounds) during a training session. While unofficial because it occurred outside of a sanctioned competition, Saki’s figure surpasses Daniel Bell’s current all-time raw w/wraps record of 505 kilograms (1,113.3 pounds). Bell achieved that feat during the 2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) Kern US Open. Both athletes typically compete in the 120-kilogram-plus division.

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A post shared by shahram powerlifting (@shahram_power_lor)

Notably, some might find the depth of Saki’s squat questionable. He doesn’t — or barely does — reach the powerlifting competitive standard of below parallel (or getting his hip crease below the plane of his knees). As such, it potentially would not have counted in a full power meet.

A Powerful Profile

It’s been an eventful few weeks for Saki, to say the least.

Before notching this unofficial record squat w/wraps, the Iranian athlete recorded a 1025-kilogram (2,259.7-pound) total during the 2022 Iran Bodybuilding Federation (IranBBF) National Classic Powerlifting & Bench Press Championships in late April. That number gave Saki the highest total in Asian Powerlifting Federation (APF) history.

In the same competition, Saki broke the APF records with a squat of 440 kilograms (970 pounds) and a bench press of 235 kilograms (518.1 pounds). These three respective records surpassed Ray Williams’ 425.9-kilogram squat (939.1 pounds), 229.9-kilogram bench press (507 pounds), and 1008.4-kilogram total (2,223.3 pounds) from the 2015 APF Asia-Oceania Raw Championships.

Here’s a complete record of each of the three sanctioned competitions Saki has under his belt:

Shahram Saki (120KG+) | Career Results

2017 World Powerlifting Congress (WPC) Amateur European Championships (Amateur Open) — First place | W/Wraps
2021 IranBBF International Classic Club Powerlifting Championships (Open) — First place | Raw
2022 IranBBF National Classic Powerlifting & Bench Press Championships (Open) — First place | Raw

Meanwhile, here are Saki’s all-time competition bests. Notably, they are all from the 2022 IranBBF National Classic Powerlifting & Bench Press Championships:

Shahram Saki (120KG+) | Top Career Stats

Squat — 440 kilograms (970 pounds) | APF Record | Iranian Record
Bench Press — 235 kilograms (518.1 pounds) | APF Record | Iranian Record | PR
Deadlift — 350 kilograms (771.6 pounds) | APF Record | PR
Total — 1,025 kilograms (2,259.7 pounds) | APF Record | Iranian Record | PR

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A post shared by shahram powerlifting (@shahram_power_lor)

What’s Next

At the time of this writing, Saki has not announced any formal plans for his next sanctioned meet. The main updates that the athlete provides are of him capturing a usually staggering strength accomplishment on his Instagram. His feed has almost entirely consisted of heavy squats in recent weeks, which makes sense with his latest mark.

While Saki’s next competitive appearance is up in the air — for now — there is one thing to note for sure. If he can transfer over this massive squat from training (while getting more depth), he might soon be able to call himself a World Record holder.

Featured image: @shahram_power_lor on Instagram

The post Powerlifter Shahram Saki Squats 510 Kilograms, More Than the Raw W/Wraps All-Time World Record, in Training appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

71-Year-Old Powerlifter Shelly Stettner Squats 235 Pounds for a 3×3 PR

Robert Zeglinski — Thu, 12 May 2022 18:24:24 +0000

With her latest strength feat, some might point to Shelly Stettner as a consummate example of perseverance. On May 10, 2022, the 71-year-old athlete squatted 106.6 kilograms (235 pounds) for a three-set, three-rep PR during a training session. Per her social media, the squat is a part of her ongoing training for the 2022 Powerlifting America (PA) Classic Sub-Junior, Junior, and Master Nationals on June 18-19, 2022, in Orlando, FL.

Stettner completed the set while wearing knee sleeves and a lifting belt. Her bodyweight for the lift was roughly 60 kilograms (132 pounds). That lines up as the athlete has competed in the 63-kilogram weight class throughout her career.

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A post shared by Shelly Stettner (@shelly_ann_28)

Stettner does not complete the filmed set without resistance. While powering through the session, she does take somewhat extended pauses between each rep. However, considering the weight is only roughly 15 pounds less than her all-time competition best of 113.5 kilograms (250 pounds) from the 2022 USA Powerlifting (USAPL) Arnold Masters of Iron Pro. That she finished three sets of three reps of this weight is impressive.

It’s Never Too Late

Stettner’s powerlifting story could be a testament to her willingness to try new things. She didn’t pick up a barbell for the first time until April 2016, when she was 64-years-old. Years later, at the age of 71, she has seven sanctioned competitions to her name, with six victories and merely one second-place finish.

“I like many did believe getting older meant getting weaker and losing muscle. This is a myth!”

Here’s a record of some of Stettner’s more notable career results to date:

Shelly Stettner (63KG) | Notable Career Results

2019 USAPL Michigan Rookie Rumble (Masters 3, 60-69) — First place | Raw
2020 USAPL Motor City Summer Showdown (Masters 3, 60-69) — First place | Raw
2021 USAPL Raw Master’s Nationals (Masters 4, 70+) — First place | Raw
2021 USAPL Virginia Pro (Masters 4, 70+) — First place | Raw
2022 USAPL Arnold Masters of Iron Pro (Masters 4, 70+) — First place | Raw

Naturally, like with anyone, it took some diligence during her training for Stetner to build up noteworthy strength. Here are her all-time top stats:

Shelly Stettner (63KG) | Top Lift Stats

Squat — 113.5 kilograms (250.2 pounds)
Bench Press — 65 kilograms (143.3 pounds)
Deadlift — 147.5 kilograms (325.1 pounds)
Total — 322.5 kilograms (711 pounds)

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A post shared by Shelly Stettner (@shelly_ann_28)

The Master’s Nationals Are Next

Stettner seems to be in the final stages of her training before the 2022 Master Nationals next month. The athlete has clearly been hard at work rounding out her different lifts. Her Instagram is appropriately rife with extensive footage of herself completing squats, bench presses, and deadlifts in recent weeks.

Only time will tell whether Stettner’s dedication will pay off with another win. Though, if she can dip her toes into professional powerlifting at her age and thrive, anything seems possible.

The 2022 PA Classic Sub-Junior, Junior, and Master Nationals will take place on June 18-19, 2022, in Orlando, FL.

Featured image: @shelly_ann_28 on Instagram

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Powerlifter Julius Maddox Hits 361-Kilogram (796-Pound) Bench Press For PR

Robert Zeglinski — Wed, 11 May 2022 18:51:03 +0000

When it comes to the bench press, only one other lifter can match Julius Maddox’s unique mix of strength and focus. On May 10, 2022, the powerlifter again showed why he’s one of the top two bench pressers on the planet when he logged a 361-kilogram bench press (796-pound) for a new PR. The mark exceeds his competition best of 355 kilograms (782.6 pounds) from the 2021 WRPF Hybrid Showdown III — the current all-time world record — and is the second heaviest bench press ever caught on camera.

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A post shared by Julius Maddox (@irregular_strength)

This bench press is particularly noteworthy because it places Maddox on the precipice of history.

While Maddox is the current world record holder, he has never completed an 800-pound bench press, be it in training or a sanctioned competition. The powerlifter has had two previous attempts at the towering mark — in June 2021 and June 2020, respectively — but wasn’t able to lock out the rep on each occasion.

According to his Instagram post, the powerlifter still has his eyes on the ambitious prize.

“I’ve missed this weight 10-plus times. Hearing my little girls ask me when I will hit 800 pounds is enough for me to lay it all on the line,” Maddox writes. “This is bigger than a title for me. It’s about the long-lasting impact I leave for my kids and family. The times they fall on hard times and need some motivation!”

Motivating Perseverance

At the time of this writing, only one person, Daniel Zamani, has ever bench-pressed 800 pounds. The Iranian athlete crushed a 365-kilogram raw bench press (804.7-pound) during a February 2022 training session. Zamani also donned a lifting belt and wrist wraps for his staggering press.

Since Zamani’s figure occurred during training, it is not the official record. Notably, Maddox and Zamani were to square off in a bench press battle for supremacy at the 2022 Iron Wars V in January, but that fell through for undisclosed reasons.

Before this new one-rep PR, Maddox recently completed a 318-kilogram bench press (700-pound) for a four-rep PR in late April 2022. That he put himself on the 800-pound doorstep a few weeks later might signify that he isn’t messing around trying to notch this stellar achievement. Since Zamani left the door open for someone to beat him to the 800-pound mark in a sanctioned meet, it seems like Maddox doesn’t want to waste any time.

Maddox has not announced his next competition at the time of this publishing. That said, per Maddox’s overall competitive history, it will likely be a bench press-only meet. More importantly, in all probability, it’s where he’ll try for his 800-pound glory.

Featured image: @irregular_strength on Instagram

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Powerlifter Phillip Herndon Squats 410 Kilograms (904 Pounds) W/Wraps During Training

Robert Zeglinski — Tue, 10 May 2022 17:53:23 +0000

Squatting 400-plus-kilograms isn’t new territory for Phillip Herndon. But two months out from his next competition, on May 9, 2022, the powerlifter posted a 410-kilogram (904-pound) squat in training, punctuating strength gains that very well could trend toward a new world record.

For context, Herndon already owns the all-time heaviest squat of 435 kilograms (959 pounds) in the 110-kilogram weight class. He did not disclose his weight for the lift, but Herndon has consistently competed at 110 kilograms as a professional in recent years.

Check out the squat below, courtesy of Herndon’s Instagram profile:

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A post shared by Phill Herndon (@phillip_herndon)

Herndon’s powerful squat while wearing wraps appears to be a part of ongoing training for his next competition. As he notes in his Instagram post, the powerlifter will participate in the 2022 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) American Pro this late July.

If hefty squats such as this are what Herndon brings to the table, then he might be in great shape for the meet.

Herndon at a Glance

At 26-years-old, Herndon is technically smack dab in the prime of his career. There are plenty of potential achievements still on the horizon if he pursues them accordingly. That said, Herndon has been a competitive powerlifter, in some capacity, for nearly a decade. The American athlete began his career in Junior meets in his native Pennsylvania in 2013 and has hit the ground running ever since.

Notably, Herndon set the current squat with wraps all-time world record at the 2022 United States Powerlifting Coalition (USPC) Mid-Atlantic Classic in early April. His mark bested Daniel Misencik (110KG), who squatted 432.5 kilograms (953.5 pounds) at the 2022 WRPF Ghost Clash this past February — who also previously topped Herndon’s old top figure.

Here’s a rundown of some of the more notable recent results from Herndon’s career:

Phillip Herndon | Notable Career Results

2018 International Powerlifting League (IPL) Philadelphia Fit Expo (Wraps) — First place | Open
2018 United States Powerlifting Association (USPA) Iron City Pro/Am (Wraps) — First place | Open
2018 USPA Yuletide Slay Full-Power Classic (Wraps) — First place | Open
2019 WRPF Kern US Open (Wraps) — Third place | Open
2019 USPA The Tribute (Wraps) — Second place | Open
2019 Revolution Powerlifting Syndicate (RPS) Raw Dawg Nationals 8 (Wraps) — First place | Pro Open
2019 International Powerlifting Association (IPA) National Powerlifting & Bench Press Championships (Wraps) — First place | Pro Open
2020 USPA Pioneer Open (Wraps) — First place | Open
2020 Metal Militia (MM) National Championships (Wraps) — First place | Pro Open
2020 USPC Virginia State Championships (Wraps) — First place | Open
2021 RPS NJ and North American Championships (Wraps) — First place | Pro Open
2021 WRPF Kern US Open (Wraps) — First place | Open
2021 USPA Pennsylvania State Championship (Raw) — First place | Open
2022 USPC Mid-Atlantic Classic (Wraps) — First place | Open

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A post shared by Phill Herndon (@phillip_herndon)

The American Pro is Next

Herndon will enter his next competition on a current streak of nine straight wins. At the same time, given his recent training focus, it’s not a stretch to assume he will also try to extend his squat with wraps record.

The 2022 WRPF American Pro will take place on July 29-30, 2022, in Manassas, VA.

Featured image: @phillip_herndon on Instagram

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Powerlifter Marissa Wilson Captures a 260.8-Kilogram (575-Pound) 2-Rep Squat for a PR

Robert Zeglinski — Wed, 04 May 2022 18:58:48 +0000

On May 3, 2022, Marissa Wilson stepped into the squat rack and showed off impressive strength on the compound lift. During the training session, the powerlifter squatted an incredible 260.8 kilograms (575 pounds). Wilson — who most recently competed in the 110-kilogram-plus weight class — completed the squat while wearing knee sleeves and wrist wraps. It is unclear whether she wore a lifting belt, though it could be under her shirt.

The staggering squat double eclipses Wilson’s best-ever official max rep of 252.4 kilograms (556.6 pounds) from the 2022 United States Powerlifting Association (USPA) Drug Tested Hershey Winter Classic by almost 20 kilograms.

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A post shared by . (@ms_phenomenalred)

In her moment of triumph, Wilson could not hold back her pride. The powerlifter recently announced over her social media that she would compete in the 2022 USPA National Championships on May 27-31, 2022, in Atlanta, GA.

With that meet a little under a month away, it’s understandable she shows a little pride in exceeding her previous best squat twice.

“I am at a loss of words, to be honest,” Wilson wrote in her post’s caption. “I am just beyond proud of myself! Four weeks out!”

In notching such a stellar feat of strength, Wilson had a noteworthy person to thank — fellow powerlifter and friend, Tamara Walcott — for being a supportive inspiration in her journey.

“Thank you [Walcott] for pouring into me,” Wilson wrote. “And believing in me. And always just hyping me up. It’s never a competition with us, and I love that!”

It seems iron does sharpen iron for Wilson, Walcott, and other competitive powerlifters.

Prideful Success

Wilson has only been professionally powerlifting since mid-2018. Given a penchant for victory, it would be hard to tell she ever had any inexperience as a powerlifter. Wilson possesses six first-place finishes in eight career competitions and another second-place result. Here’s her notable record of finishes to date:

Marissa Wilson | Notable Career Results

2018 RAW Potomac Open — 1st place
2018 USPA Drug Tested Maryland State Championships — 1st place
2019 USPA Drug Tested NBC4 Health & Fitness Expo — 2nd place
2019 USPA Drug Tested M.A.S.S Weekend Classic — 1st place
2019 USPA Drug Tested NOVA Fall Classic — 1st place
2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) FQ Classic — 1st place
2022 USPA Drug Tested Hershey Winter Classic — 1st place

Wilson competed in the 110-kilogram weight class for the first time during the 2022 USPA Drug Tested Hershey Winter Classic. Before that, she always competed with +90-kilogram powerlifters. Wilson may carry her latest weight class distinction over to the 2022 USPA National Championships.

With an established track record for fantastic lifts throughout her competitive career, Wilson has become one of the rising names in the sport. Here are her all-time bests to this point:

Marissa Wilson | Competition PRs

Squat — 252.4 kilograms (556.6 pounds) | Raw
Bench Press — 139.9 kilograms (308.6 pounds) | Raw
Deadlift — 204.9 kilograms (451.9 pounds) | Raw
Total — 597.4 kilograms (1,317.2 pounds) | Raw

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A post shared by . (@ms_phenomenalred)

The USPA National Championships Are Next

A combination of ambition and support from her friends likely helped take Wilson this far. With this new squat PR, among other feats, she might make even more noise in Atlanta in the coming weeks.

The 2022 USPA National Championships will take place on May 27-31, 2022, in Atlanta, GA.

Featured image: @ms_phenomenalred on Instagram

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Watch Powerlifter Jesus Olivares Smash a 417.3-Kilogram Squat (920-Pound) During Training

Robert Zeglinski — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 21:18:57 +0000

On April 26, 2022, Olivares showed why he’s someone to watch in the powerlifting sphere when the 23-year-old locked out a 417.3-kilogram squat (920-pound) with ease during a training session.

Takes 100% effort to make something look effortless.

Olivares wore wrist straps, a lifting belt, and knee sleeves for the lift. The athlete also had three spotters on hand as a precaution, though, given how easily he completed the squat — their direct intervention was unnecessary.

Check out the casual, staggering lift below, courtesy of Olivares’ Instagram profile:

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A post shared by Jesus Olivares (@mega.gojira)

Olivares at a Glance

Olivares may be in his early 20s, but he’s been competitive powerlifting in some capacity for almost a decade. A Texas native, Olivares began his career as a teenager with the Texas High School Powerlifting Association (THSPA) in 2013. After getting some experience and meets under his belt, he managed to win the 2014 THSPA Mustang Invitational — his first-ever victory.

From there, it’s been mostly smooth sailing for the stellar young powerlifter.

Of late, Olivares has won six straight competitions and hasn’t lost an event since 2015. To date, his peak career achievement might be a first-place finish in the 2021 International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Classic Powerlifting Championships while competing in the 120-kilogram-plus weight class. That has also been Olivares’ competition weight during his ongoing winning streak.

Here’s a rundown of some of the more notable results from Olivares’ ongoing career:

Jesus Olivares Notable Career Results

2019 USA Powerlifting (USAPL) Winter Iron Open — 1st place
2020 USAPL Capital City Classic — 1st place
2020 USAPL Collegiate Cup and Texas Open — 1st place
2021 USAPL Raw Nationals — 1st place
2021 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships — 1st place
2022 AMP Classic Open Nationals — 1st place

Olivares recently notched an unofficial world record for the 120-kilogram-plus weight class, among other feats. During the 2022 AMP Classic Open Nationals, the powerlifter pulled a 402.5-kilogram deadlift (887.3-pound) — which would’ve been the world record if achieved at an international competition. Ray Williams still holds the official all-time IPF mark with a 398.5-kilogram pull (878.5-pound) during the 2018 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships.

In addition, Olivares also scored a 1,110-kilogram total (2,447.1-pound) during the meet. It is the second-heaviest raw total for the 120-kilogram-plus weight class in the history of IPF powerlifting. According to Open Powerlifting, Daniel Bell holds the all-time top spot with a 1,182.5-kilogram total (2,607-pound) from the 2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) Hybrid Showdown III.

Here are Olivares’ stats from his recent meet, where he broke multiple competition records in the 120-kilogram-plus weight class:

Jesus Olivares | 2022 AMP Classic Open Nationals Stats

Squat — 450 kilograms (992 pounds) | Meet Record
Bench Press — 257.5 kilograms (567 pounds) | Meet Record
Deadlift — 402.5 kilograms (887.3 pounds) | Unofficial World Record | Meet Record
Total — 1,110 kilograms (2,447.1 pounds) | Meet Record

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A post shared by Jesus Olivares (@mega.gojira)

The Road Ahead

Olivares will continue to plug away with his training as he looks to defend his 2o21 IPF title. Considering his recent string of staggering results, he may become a repeat champion and officially log a world record or two.

The 2022 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships will take place on June 6-12, 2022, in Sun City, South Africa.

Featured image: @mega.gojira on Instagram

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Powerlifter Danny Grigsby Crushes a 437.2-Kilogram (964-Pound) Deadlift for 2 Reps

Robert Zeglinski — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 20:52:37 +0000

On April 24, 2022, Danny Grigsby deadlifted 437.2 kilograms (964 pounds) for two reps during training. The mark is the latest in a growing line of a recent deadlift progression for the powerlifter.

Check out the staggering deadlift double below, courtesy of Grigsby’s Instagram profile:

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A post shared by Danny Grigsby (@dan_grigs)

For the pull, Grigsby forgoes all equipment save for a lifting belt. He also completes the deadlift double with relative ease from a sumo stance.

In the Instagram post’s caption, Grigsby elected for self-deprecation to describe the training session. He alluded to minor sleep troubles in a seeming joking desire to get a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. It doesn’t seem like Grigsby’s apparent lack of sleep prevented him from showing off his tremendous power.

“Counting down the days until I get a CPAP, so I’ll recover better and won’t feel like dog-sh** every workout,” Grigsby wrote.

A fellow powerlifter with a similar deadlift prowess, Jamal Browner, poked fun at Grigsby’s pulls, writing in a reply, “Can you please chill out?” Meanwhile, four-time Men’s Physique Olympia Champion (2014-2017) Jeremy Buendia marveled at Grigsby’s strength, quickly commenting, “Easy work, man! Incredible.”

Indeed, as long as he continues to share incredible strength feats like this, the 28-year-old Grigsby may draw attention from major corners across the strength sports world.

Pulling at Full Strength

This sort of staggering deadlift double is nothing new for Grigsby.

Recently, the powerlifter became the first person ever to deadlift 1,000 pounds in a full power meet with an all-time world record 465-kilogram pull (1,025-pound) set during the 2022 United States Powerlifting Association (USPA) Virginia Beach Classic 2. Grigsby notched the achievement while competing in the 125-kilogram weight class.

Following that record feat, Grigsby said that he was working through some minor leg ailments over social media. They were prevalent enough for him to take aspects of his training gradually — especially but not limited to his deadlift. Roughly two weeks later, in April 2022, Grigsby seemingly quelled all concerns when he pulled a 415-kilogram deadlift (915 pounds) for two reps and then crushed a 770-pound deadlift for an eight-rep, volume PR.

Grigsby accomplished each of his recent training feats, like his new deadlift training double, while wearing only a lifting belt. Suffice to say that if these pulls are what taking it easy looks like, then Grigsby certainly looks like he’s back at a full power capacity.

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A post shared by Danny Grigsby (@dan_grigs)

What’s Next

Only an approximate month removed from his latest meet, Grigsby has not yet confirmed his next competition in the year 2022. Whenever he’s on a sanctioned lifting platform again, his new stated goal remains unchanged — He wants to notch at least a 1,043.3-kilogram (2,300-pound) total.

Such a mark would give Grigsby the second-heaviest total for a competitor in the 125-kilogram weight class. Zac Myers holds the current world record with a 1,053-kilogram total (2,321.5-pound), set at the 2020 USPA No Luck Needed Open.

Grigsby’s continued impressive work with his deadlift will undoubtedly be a factor in capturing that achievement.

Featured image: @kinng_67 on Instagram

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Powerlifter Krzysztof Wierzbicki Locks Out a 490-Kilogram Deadlift (1,080 Pounds) During Training

Robert Zeglinski — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:54:30 +0000

On roughly April 20, 2022, the Polish powerlifter pulled an incredible 490-kilogram deadlift (1,080 pounds) during a training session. Notably, Wierzbicki appeared to pull the weight without a lifting belt — though he could potentially have worn one under his shirt — and from a sumo stance while wearing only wrist wraps.

Check out the lift below, captured from one of Wierzbicki’s Instagram stories, which was then reposted by Julian Howard (@worldstrongestfan) on Instagram.

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A post shared by Julian Howard (@worldsstrongestfan)

Wierzbicki did not disclose how much he weighed when he completed the lift. According to Open Powerlifting, he has competed professionally in the 110-kilogram weight class since the spring of 2021. In any event, this deadlift was well over four and a half times Wierzbicki’s recent usual competition body weight.

Paving a Road

Wierzbicki has been open on social media in his pursuit of a hallowed mark in strength sports — the 500-kilogram deadlift (1,102 pounds). The only two people to ever deadlift that much weight are 2017 World’s Strongest Man Champion (WSM) Eddie Hall and 2018 WSM Champion Hafthor Björnsson. Notably, both achieved their legendary pulls from a conventional stance while wearing deadlift suits and lifting straps — which is allowed in a strongman competition.

Given his quick progress of late, Wierzbicki’s entry into the 500-kilogram deadlift club seems inevitable.

During the 2020 National Association of Powerlifting (NAP) Siberian Championships, while competing in the 100-kilogram weight class, Wierzbicki logged the current all-time world record deadlift — a staggering 433.5-kilogram pull (955.7-pound). Roughly eight months later, in November 2020, while wearing wrist straps and a lifting belt, the Polish athlete deadlifted 456 kilograms (1,005.3 pounds) in training, breaking the 1,000-pound barrier for the first time.

The ensuing year, in early November 2021 while competing in the 110-kilogram weight class, Wierzbicki broke the all-time world record for a non-full power meet with a 447.5-kilogram pull (986.6-pound) during the 2021 WRPF-POL Mistrzostwa Polski.

Finally, in what is increasingly becoming a typical deadlift step up for Wierzbicki, he recently pulled 461 kilograms (1,016 pounds) during another workout.

All four of Wierzbicki’s mentioned pulls were from a sumo stance. His latest 490-kilogram deadlift (1,080 pounds) training feat is another massive step toward that lofty 500-kilogram (1,102-pound) goal.

Back and Forth

The 110-kilogram powerlifting weight class appears to have a two-person deadlift tug of war for the record books. While Wierzbicki continues to charge along toward astonishing, seldom-seen numbers, American powerlifter Jamal Browner has generally kept up with the meteoric pace.

Over the approximate past month, Browner has seen rapid advancements in his conventional deadlift. On March 23, 2022, he pulled 432.5 kilograms (953.5 pounds) while wearing only a lifting belt. An approximate month later, on April 20, 2022, Browner locked out 409.6 kilograms (903 pounds) for two reps.

In the 110-kilogram weight class, Browner also possesses an all-time deadlift world record — a 440.4-kilogram pull (971-pound) from the 2020 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) Hybrid Showdown II. Notably, like Wierzbicki, Browner has also previously crossed the 1,000-pound barrier with a 476.3-kilogram deadlift (1,050-pound) during a training session in July 2020. Browner wore a lifting belt and lifting straps for that pull.

While the 500-kilogram mark is still a ways off, the deadlift world record for strictly powerlifters is within shouting distance for Wierzbicki and Browner. The 2003-2004 Iceland’s Strongest Man Champion (ISM) Benedikt Magnùsson holds the current record with a 460.4-kilogram pull (1,015-pound) captured at the deadlift-only 2011 Hardcore Clash of the Titans IV. Magnùsson competed in the super heavyweight class (319+ pounds; unrestricted weight).

Wierzbicki still has to make progress with his conventional deadlift (at least in public), but whenever he decides to compete again, he might beat Browner to the punch and break Magnùsson’s record. Membership to the 500-kilogram club likely won’t follow long after. Talk about killing two significant strength-sports birds with one stone.

Featured Image: @worldsstrongestfan on Instagram

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Tamara Walcott Notches 151.95-Kilogram Bench Press (335 Pounds) for 2 Reps

Robert Zeglinski — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 21:20:38 +0000

Roughly four years ago, at the age of 34, Tamara Walcott began competitive powerlifting. Ever since, as one of the sport’s rising names, she’s more than made up for any perceived lost time. On April 7, 2022, ahead of the 2022 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) American Pro, Walcott shared some of her recent training progress when she locked out a 151.95-kilogram (335 pounds) bench press for two reps.

Check out the lift below via Walcott’s Instagram profile:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tamara Walcott Queen (@plussize_fitqueen4.0)

Never Giving Up

Walcott’s journey to powerlifting success is notable because of the adversity she’s overcome. On top of crushing deadlifts and squats professionally, she’s a single mother with two kids, working a full-time job, and a business owner. Any person might have trouble juggling so much on their plate, but, thus far, it doesn’t appear to have been an issue for Walcott.

As a prominent powerlifter with a platform, Walcott knows she can’t let up. She appears to be more than happy to wear this honor with pride.

“Just like the video said, I ain’t never giving up,” Walcott wrote in the post’s caption. “Why? Because I do this for me. The bonus in the process is what I do inspires others! I’m humbled by that, but that can’t be our driving force. We have to be our driving force.”

Indeed, Walcott is not short on situations where she’s been a quality powerlifting role model. In eight career competitions, she has seven victories. In one of her more recent wins at the 2021 WRPF The Bucked Up Showdown, she pulled a current world deadlift of 288.5 kilograms (606 pounds).

Always make sure you take care of you first

Still, her success doesn’t mean she can always go full steam ahead. Walcott appears to understand that attaining powerlifting glory is a gradual process — which explains why she says she took a recent approximate week’s break from training. To Walcott, every small victory, at a good pace, holds merit in a long and fulfilling journey.

“I always listen to my body,” Walcott continued. “I’m back for now, and I’m coming with a vengeance. There is work to be done. There are records to break. So preparation and proactiveness are key! I’m a beast; therefore, maintenance routinely is essential.”

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A post shared by Tamara Walcott Queen (@plussize_fitqueen4.0)

The Queen of Deadlifts

Walcott doesn’t seem to show any desire to squander her current opportunity. In recent interviews, she hasn’t been shy in passionately discussing how her foray into powerlifting remade her self-image.

More importantly, while taking care of her personal life, Walcott says she now possesses revitalizing energy that she wants to transfer to others. Her March 2022 spot on Access Hollywood saw her dive into more detail on the past and this ongoing honorable mission for visibility:

“I’m at a crossroad, I can’t keep doing this, I have to live for my kids,” Walcott said of her mindset during her low point. “I have to be here for them. I have to change my life. So, I decided to go back to the gym and lose some weight.”

It’s the next step that might have changed not only Walcott’s life trajectory but perhaps the future of powerlifting. While working out one day, she saw a few athletes clanging weights and “throwing chalk around.” The rest was history.

“I asked about it, and they were like, ‘Oh yeah, they’re powerlifters, that’s what they’re doing,'” Walcott said. “And I was like, I want a piece of that.”

As for whether Walcott would endorse powerlifting to other women, her answer could not have been more resounding.

“I would recommend it [powerlifting] to more women, especially since I have a 15-year-old daughter,” Walcott said. “It translates to so many aspects of your life. It keeps you dedicated, motivated. You’re able to go in the gym and do things you thought you couldn’t do. Not only has it changed me physically, it’s changed me mentally. It’s made me mentally strong.”

As she continues to expand her reach, Walcott is hosting an upcoming open forum about tackling stereotypes on April 24, 2022, in New York City. Tickets for the event can be purchased on her website. Walcott’s next competition — the 2022 WRPF American Pro — will take place on July 29-30, 2022, in Manassas, VA.

Featured image: @plussize_fitqueen4.0. on Instagram

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Bench Press World Record Holder Julius Maddox Smashes a 775-Pound Squat in Training

Robert Zeglinski — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 14:51:45 +0000

Since he began his career in 2015, Julius Maddox has made a name for himself by lifting staggering amounts of weight with the bench press. While training recently, it was his squat that drew the attention of the powerlifting world. On April 5, 2022, Maddox shared his prowess in the squat rack when he logged a 351.5-kilogram squat (775 pounds).

Check out the workout below, where Maddox notably did not wear a lifting belt or knee sleeves, via his Instagram profile:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Julius Maddox (@irregular_strength)

According to the video’s caption, Maddox says he used a Kabuki Transformer Bar for the lift — a multifunctional, adjustable barbell that allows for 24 different squat variations compared to a traditional straight barbell.

Maddox says that after completing his first squat, he followed it with a 371-kilogram squat (820 pounds) — which was “sloppy” but a PR. He did not disclose the latter with a video, but it seems believable given the ease of his initial rep.

No Neglect

Maddox’s squats are noteworthy because they show he does not neglect other aspects of his strength. According to Open Powerlifting, in 16 sanctioned powerlifting events during his career, Maddox has never recorded a squat or deadlift. He instead focuses on his bench press aptitude.

That focus has paid off as Maddox possesses the current all-time world record with a 355-kilogram bench press (782.6 pounds) set at the 2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) Hybrid Showdown III. What’s now apparent is that Maddox might turn some heads if he decided to squat in a future event.

Ambitious Greatness

Maddox is no stranger to pushing limits in his career.

The 34-year-old once completed a 350-kilogram bench press (771 pounds) in training, which was the heaviest raw bench to date (now since eclipsed by him). Before that, he crushed a 322-kilogram bench press (710 pounds) for three reps. Suffice to say that Maddox appears to know what he’s doing by centering on the bench press.

Before his latest squat feat, Maddox made headlines in January of 2022 when he tried to break 2017 World’s Strongest Man Champion (WSM) Eddie Hall’s CrossFit WOD “Isabel” World Record.

The “Isabel” workout is as follows:

CrossFit WOD Isabel

30 snatches | Men: 135 pounds | Women: 95 pounds
Time limit: Five minutes

Hall set a high bar by finishing all 30 snatches in an unbroken 50.9 seconds. By comparison, “elite” athletes usually finish the workout within two minutes, while “advanced” people are in a three to four-minute range, per WODWell.

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A post shared by Julius Maddox (@irregular_strength)

Unfortunately, despite a valiant effort during his attempt, Maddox fell a mere two reps short of Hall’s mark with 28 unbroken reps.

Nevertheless, like his recent squat, Maddox showed that he has plenty of stellar athleticism than he sometimes lets on. Only time will tell whether the powerlifter shows it off with different lifts in a competition in the future.

Featured image: @irregular_strength on Instagram

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Powerlifter Tiffany Chapon Exceeds Total & Squat World Records While Training

Robert Zeglinski — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 21:34:58 +0000

In a budding career, powerlifter Tiffany Chapon continues to show she is well on her way. On April 4, 2022, the French-born athlete — who competes in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) at 47 kilograms — showcased her strength again when she logged a raw total of 425 kilograms (937 pounds) during training. While unofficial because it did not occur in a competition, the mark eclipses the current world record by seven kilograms (15.43 pounds).

Chapon’s workout total includes another unofficial record — a staggering 165-kilogram squat (363.8 pounds). Check out Chapon’s entire training session below, courtesy of her Instagram page:

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A post shared by Tiffany Chapon (@turbo_tiff)

The marks Chapon notched during this workout look even better on paper. Here are her training numbers:

Tiffany Chapon — Training Numbers | April 4, 2022

Squat — 165 kilograms (363.8 pounds)
Bench Press — 95 kilograms (209.4 pounds)
Deadlift — 165 kilograms (363.8 pounds)
Total — 425 kilograms (937 pounds)

It’s worth noting that Chapon’s squat is over three times her recent competition body weight. The powerlifter did not disclose her weight during this workout. Nonetheless, each lift appears to be minimal trouble for Chapon — a potentially great sign for any upcoming competitions.

Notably, Chapon’s squat, bench press, and total marks from this session are all markedly better than her previous competition bests. She improved upon her squat by 10.02 kilograms (22.1 pounds), her bench press by 1.99 kilograms (4.38 pounds), and her total by seven kilograms (15.43 pounds), respectively.

A Promising Start

For someone who only began powerlifting professionally in September 2020, Chapon has wasted no time notching achievements. In eight sanctioned events in her career, the 20-year-old has captured six first-place finishes.

The range of meets Chapon has participated in also has quality variety — from the Fédération Française de Force (FFForce) and European Powerlifting Federation (EPF) to the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF).

While competing in the 47-kilogram weight class, Chapon owns two official world records. The first is an all-time world record 155-kilogram squat (341.7 pounds), accomplished at the 2022 FFForce Championnats de France Élite de Force Athlétique. Her 418-kilogram (921.5 pounds) total from the same event is the current world record, too.

Here is Chapon’s complete competition resume to date:

Tiffany Chapon — Career Results

2020 FFForce Silent Worker Meet — 1st overall
2021 FFForce Test Match Eleiko — 1st overall
2021 FFForce Silent Worker Meet — 2nd overall
2021 FFForce Championnats de France Jeunes et Élite de Force Athlétique — 1st overall
2021 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships — 1st overall
2021 FFForce Girl Power — 2nd overall
2021 EPF European Classic Powerlifting Championships — 1st overall
2022 FFForce Championnats de France Élite de Force Athlétique — 1st overall

What’s on Deck

Chapon might most excel with her squat, but it’s her bench press that may soon draw the attention of the powerlifting community. The current bench press all-time world record is 95.5 kilograms (210.5 pounds), set by Hanna Rantala during the 2017 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships. Chapon’s latest bench press mark during training puts her half a kilogram away from breaking that record.

It might only be a matter of time before Chapon announces her next competition. Whenever she does compete next, she might come out victorious and go home with a few records.

Featured image: turbo_tiff on Instagram

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