Powerlifting is all about three massive lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. Add them up, and you get a “total.” Some lifters have taken their totals to insane levels. But who holds the highest total ever?
TL;DR
The all-time highest powerlifting total is over 1,300 kilograms (that’s almost 3,000 pounds!). This jaw-dropping total was achieved by Jesus Olivares in a raw (with wraps) meet. Powerlifting records vary depending on federation and gear used. But Olivares currently holds the top spot as of 2023.
What Is a Powerlifting Total?
Let’s break it down real quick. In powerlifting, athletes compete in three lifts:
- Squat
- Bench Press
- Deadlift
Each lifter gets three tries at each lift. The best lift from each is added together for a final “total.” Whoever has the biggest total usually wins.
Your total is the whole point in powerlifting. It shows your full-body strength. So, naturally, people want to know:
What’s the Heaviest Powerlifting Total Ever?
As of 2023, the all-time highest raw total is a mind-blowing 1,152.5 kilograms (2,540 pounds), set by Jesus Olivares at the IPF Sheffield Powerlifting Championships.
But wait—there’s more.
If you include different types of powerlifting gear (like squat suits and bench shirts), the heaviest total ever is 1,320 kilograms (that’s 2,910 pounds!). That monster total belongs to a man named Dan Bell.
Quick Comparison
- Jesus Olivares (Raw with wraps) – 1,152.5 kg (2,540 lbs)
- Dan Bell (Wraps, some gear) – 1,320 kg (2,910 lbs)
Who Are These Guys?
Jesus Olivares is one of the most exciting lifters today. He lifts raw, meaning almost no extra support—just a lifting belt, shoes, and maybe knee sleeves. In 2023, he shocked the world at just 24 years old with that 1,152.5 kg total.
His lifts broke down roughly like this:
- Squat: 470 kg (1,036 lbs)
- Bench Press: 272.5 kg (600 lbs)
- Deadlift: 410 kg (904 lbs)
Dan Bell is a legend in a more equipped style of lifting. Some call it “raw with wraps” or “multi-ply” gear. His 1,320 kg total in 2021 turned heads worldwide. Here’s how Dan’s lifts looked:
- Squat: 500 kg (1,102 lbs)
- Bench Press: 272.5 kg (600 lbs)
- Deadlift: 547.5 kg (1,207 lbs)
That deadlift alone could pull your car down the street!
What’s “Raw” vs “Equipped” Powerlifting?
This is important. There are two main styles of powerlifting:
- Raw: Minimal gear. Usually just a belt and knee sleeves.
- Equipped: Uses special gear like squat suits, deadlift suits, and bench shirts.
Why does it matter? Because the gear can add a lot of weight to your lifts. Think of it like a trampoline helping you bounce out of the bottom of a squat. That’s why equipped lifters usually have higher totals.
So when comparing records, it’s helpful to know what rules and equipment were used.
Federations and Rules
Not all records are created equal. Different federations have different rules. Some of the most popular federations include:
- IPF (International Powerlifting Federation): Very strict rules. Drug-tested events.
- USPA (United States Powerlifting Association): Allows more gear. Non-tested and tested categories.
- WRPF (World Raw Powerlifting Federation): Known for promoting massive totals.
So, when someone says they have a record, always ask, “In which federation?”
Why Are These Totals So Impressive?
To put it simply—these numbers are superhuman. Most fit gym-goers can struggle to squat 140 kg (315 lbs). These athletes are lifting triple that or more in just one of the three lifts.
Their commitment is unreal. Training takes years. Diet, sleep, and consistency all matter. These lifters didn’t just wake up one day and lift 1,300 kilos!
Coming Up the Ranks
New lifters are closing in, too. Names like Gavin Adin and John Haack are putting up world-class numbers. The sport is growing fast, and it wouldn’t be surprising if someone breaks 1,400 kg in the next few years.
Fun Fact: What’s That in Real Life Terms?
Need a visual? A 1,300 kg total is about the combined weight of:
- A Toyota Prius
- Two grizzly bears
- Almost 13 adult humans
So yeah, these totals are HUGE.
Why Do People Love This?
Powerlifting isn’t just about strength. It’s about passion, discipline, and progress. You don’t have to be a record breaker to enjoy it.
People love the simplicity: Just you, the bar, and the weight. Three big lifts to test everything you’ve got.
And watching someone push the limits of human strength? That never gets old.
Summary
If you’re wondering what the all-time highest powerlifting total is—now you know. It’s 1,320 kg, held by Dan Bell. But the raw category is ruled by Jesus Olivares with a crazy 1,152.5 kg.
The world of powerlifting keeps evolving. Records are meant to be broken. Grab your belt, chalk up, and who knows? Maybe you’ll be next.