Jawon Bethea Garrison achieved the All‑Time World Record in squat and total (82.5KG) at the 2023 WRPF American Pro 2, making it one of the biggest moments in the sport. In the world of powerlifting, where strength and precision define greatness, the 2023 WRPF American Pro 2 in Manassas, Virginia, became one of the sport’s biggest moments. From October 27 to 29, athletes came to test their limits and cement their names in the record books. Among them, Jawon Bethea Garrison emerged as a force unlike any other.
Then, in the raw 82.5‑kilogram weight class, Garrison made history. He set the all‑time world record for total weight lifted, hoisting a massive 915.5 kilograms — or 2,018.3 pounds. Moreover, he claimed the all‑time raw squat world record with a final attempt of 353 kilograms, or 778.2 pounds. Importantly, he achieved this feat with only a lifting belt and knee sleeves, following the strictest rules in the sport.
Finally, Garrison’s performance topped his own previous record squat of 345.5 kilograms, or 761.7 pounds. Now, he is looking toward an even bigger challenge — moving up to the 90‑kilogram class. Altogether, it’s safe to say the 353‑kilogram squat record he set will stand for a long time, a mark of one of the best performances in the history of powerlifting.
Jawon expressed his thoughts on this transition, saying;
“This was my last meet at 181 regardless of outcome, ya boi dun got too big … 90kg is next and we will only get better , stronger , smarter .. it will be a new hunger , same beast , different day .”
Watch a lift Below:
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Jawon Bethea Garrison achieved the All‑Time World Record in squat and total (82.5KG) at the 2023 WRPF American Pro 2
In a display of powerlifting excellence, Jawon Bethea Garrison showcased an extraordinary performance, setting new standards in multiple categories. Let’s break down his remarkable accomplishments in each segment.
Squat:
Jawon Bethea Garrison demonstrated his immense strength in the squat category with a memorable performance:
- Unsuccessful Attempt: 330 kilograms (727.5 pounds)
- Impressive Lift: 348 kilograms (767.2 pounds)
- All-Time World Record: 353 kilograms (778.2 pounds) — U82.5KG All-Time World Record
Bench Press:
Garrison’s bench press prowess was equally remarkable, pushing the boundaries with precision:
- Bench Press: 220 kilograms (485 pounds)
- Bench Press: 227.5 kilograms (501.6 pounds)
- Bench Press: 230 kilograms (507.1 pounds)
Deadlift:
In the deadlift category, Garrison further solidified his dominance with a noteworthy performance:
- Deadlift: 317.5 kilograms (700 pounds)
- Outstanding Lift: 332.5 kilograms (733 pounds) — Competition PR
- Unsuccessful Attempt: 340 kilograms (749.6 pounds)
Total All-Time World Record:
Jawon Bethea Garrison’s collective performance across these categories led to an astounding Total All-Time World Record of 915.5 kilograms (2,018.3 pounds) in the U82.5KG class.
It’s worth noting that the previous Total World Record holder was Blake Lehew, who achieved 915 kilograms (2,017.2 pounds) at the 2022 WRPF PPC Finals. With Garrison’s remarkable feat, the powerlifting world witnesses a new standard of excellence in the U82.5KG class.
“I dont know where to start.. honestly.. this has been a dream of mine for 6 years now”
Watch the lift Below:
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Here’s Jawon Bethea Garrison’s competition history
| Place | Fed | Date | Competition | Division | Total (lb/kg) | Dots |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USAPL | 2023-04-15 | 7th Annual Capital City Barbell Championships | MR-O | DQ (Disqualified) | – |
| 1 | USAPL | 2022-09-24 | Montgomery Showdown | MR-O | 1802.3 lb / 817.7 kg | 555.3 |
| 1 | WRPF | 2022-07-29 | American Pro | Open | 1952.2 lb / 885 kg | 603.6 |
| 1 | USPA | 2022-05-21 | Drug Tested Pro American Cup | Open | 1940.1 lb / 880.4 kg | 583.34 |
| 1 | WRPF | 2022-02-12 | Ghost Clash | Open | 1890.5 lb / 857.7 kg | 586.59 |
| 1 | USPA | 2021-06-12 | Drug Tested Maveriq Throwdown | Open | 1840.9 lb / 835.1 kg | 558.85 |
| 1 | WRPF | 2021-02-20 | Hybrid Showdown III | Open | 1934.6 lb / 878.2 kg | 596.06 |
| 1 | WRPF | 2020-09-26 | The Showdown | Open | 1873.9 lb / 850.3 kg | 576.98 |
| 1 | USAPL | 2019-12-07 | Kilos on the Coosa | MR-O | 1675.5 lb / 760.6 kg | 519.15 |
| 1 | USPA | 2019-11-14 | North American Championships | Open | 429.9 lb / 195.2 kg | 135.06 |
| DQ | USPA | 2019-11-14 | North American Championships | Open | (Disqualified) | – |
| 1 | USPA | 2019-06-27 | National Championships | Open | 1730.6 lb / 785.1 kg | 536.23 |
| 1 | USPA | 2019-06-27 | National Championships | Open | 440.9 lb / 200 kg | 136.62 |
| 1 | USPA | 2019-02-09 | Alabama State Championships | Open | 424.4 lb / 193 kg | 132.98 |
| 1 | IPL | 2018-11-08 | Drug Tested World Championships | Open | 1719.6 lb / 783 kg | 536.66 |
| 1 | IPL | 2018-07-28 | Drug Tested Virginia Commonwealth Games | Open | 1686.5 lb / 766.3 kg | 531.46 |
| 1 | USPA | 2018-04-07 | Magic City Showdown | Open | 1659 lb / 754.3 kg | 515.68 |
| 1 | APA | 2017-07-29 | Raw Wars III | Open | 1537.7 lb / 698.3 kg | 472.48 |
Data Source: Open Powerlifting (Last Updated: August 17, 2023)
Jawon Bethea Garrison Builds a Powerlifting Legacy and Targets New Goals
Throughout nearly 20 sanctioned competitions, Jawon Bethea Garrison has built a reputation few can match. In total, he has taken the platform 19 times, claiming victory in 17 of those meets. This remarkable win rate reflects both his dominance and the relentless work that has defined his career.
Now, Garrison is looking ahead to the next chapter. He plans to move up to a heavier weight class, gaining size and strength with an eye on breaking even more world records. As he embraces this new challenge, one thing is certain — his legacy in powerlifting is still being written, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Overview
Jawon Bethea Garrison’s recent performance in the 2023 WRPF American Pro 2 powerlifting competition has made headlines. The event, held from October 27 to 29 in Manassas, VA, witnessed jaw-dropping achievements in the sport. Garrison’s exceptional display in the 82.5-kilogram weight class not only set a Total All-Time World Record but also established a new All-Time Raw Squat World Record. His remarkable feat, accomplished with strict adherence to powerlifting regulations, leaves an indelible mark on the powerlifting community. As Garrison now aims to move up to the 90-kilogram weight class, his legacy in the sport is poised to continue growing.
Featured Image – Jawon Bethea Garrison achieved the All‑Time World Record in squat and total (82.5KG) at the 2023 WRPF American Pro 2 – Credit: @pwrbldgym (Instagram)
