Jesus Olivares, also known by his Instagram handle “mega.gojira,” cleverly plays off the name of the iconic nuclear monster Godzilla, perhaps an ode to his own impressive strength and power. Olivares’ incredible performances in the gym and on the lifting platform more than live up to his chosen moniker, earning him the title of “King of the Monsters.”
On February 20th, 2023, Olivares shared a video on Instagram showcasing his latest feat of leg power: a 465-kilogram (1,025.1-pound) raw back squat achieved during a training session. The lift marks a personal record for the powerlifter, who typically weighs over 120 kilograms. For added support, Olivares utilized wrist wraps, a lifting belt, and knee sleeves. Additionally, he ensured his safety by having six spotters present during the lift.
While his latest feat is a personal best, it’s not the first time Olivares has surpassed the 1,000-pound raw squat barrier, both in training and in competition. He first achieved this impressive milestone in mid-September 2022 with a raw squat of 455 kilograms (1,003 pounds). Then, during the 2022 AMP Classic Open Nationals in the spring, Olivares won first place in the 120-plus-kilogram weight class with a raw squat of 450 kilograms (992 pounds).
There are three key reasons why Olivares’ latest squat PR is particularly noteworthy. Firstly, it is part of his training regime in preparation for the 2023 International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Sheffield Powerlifting Championships, where he will face other renowned athletes. Secondly, his new personal best of 1,025.1 pounds brings him closer to the All-Time Raw World Record held by Ray Williams at 490 kilograms (1,080.2 pounds) from the 2019 USA Powerlifting Arnold SBD Pro American. Lastly, should Olivares replicate this feat at the Sheffield Championships, he will tie with Craig Foster for the third-heaviest raw squat of all time. Only two other competitors, Williams and Jezza Uepa, have lifted more than Olivares in the 120-kilogram-plus category.
Although Olivares still has some distance to cover to break the record, the fact that he has increased his top mark by 10 kilograms (22.1 pounds) in just six months is a promising indication that he may be on his way to achieving an esteemed milestone.
At just in his mid-20s, Olivares has already made a name for himself in the powerlifting community. Climbing up the squat record charts, and possibly one day claiming the top spot, would undoubtedly cement his status as a superstar. It’s clear that Olivares is a force to be reckoned with, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.