In the world of equipped bench press, few athletes can claim the same level of dominance that Jimmy Kolb continues to display. This supremacy was once again evident at the 2023 IPA Tri-Star Bash. Held in Elizabethton, TN, this event was the stage for Kolb to push his own boundaries and break his previous world record. Armed with unwavering determination, Kolb set his sights on a 635.5-kilogram (1,401-pound) equipped bench press — a testament to his awareness of his own phenomenal abilities.
Pushing Boundaries: Kolb’s Historic Attempt
Kolb demonstrated the spirit of a true champion during his performance at the event. His bold decision to attempt the 635.5-kilogram (1,401-pound) bench press from the outset did not immediately pay off. His first two attempts were unsuccessful. Yet, rather than succumbing to pressure, Kolb maintained his composure. The third and final attempt saw him achieving the unthinkable: the heaviest lift in powerlifting history.
Breaking His Own Record: Kolb’s Unprecedented Achievement
Before this remarkable event, Kolb already held the All-Time Equipped Bench Press World Record, which stood at 612.5 kilograms (1,350.3 pounds). This record, achieved at the 2023 IPA Hillbilly Havoc, was also recognized as the heaviest lift in powerlifting. However, with his latest 635.5-kilogram (1,401-pound) bench press, Kolb not only broke his own record but also further solidified his status as an unprecedented figure in powerlifting history.
Angle 1 Lift
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Angle Lift 2
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Equipped vs. Unequipped: The Debate in Powerlifting
The equipped bench press event has faced some criticism due to the use of custom “shirts” by athletes. In powerlifting, events such as squats and deadlifts also have equipped divisions where athletes utilize specially made suits to lift significantly more weight. Yet, no world records in these events come close to matching Jimmy Kolb’s 635.5-kilogram (1,401-pound) equipped bench press.
- Heaviest Equipped Squat: Nathan Baptist (595-kg / 1,311.7-lb)
- Heaviest Equipped Deadlift: Andy Bolton (457.5-kg / 1,008.6-kg)
*Note: These achievements pertain only to the sport of powerlifting, as other sports, like Strongman, follow different rules and regulations.
Unrivalled in His Class: Jimmy Kolb’s Unprecedented Bench Press Records
Even equipped bench press specialists in powerlifting can’t rival Jimmy Kolb’s bench press prowess, highlighting his exceptional performance. Kolb is the first and only man to hit the 1,200-lb, 1,300-lb, and now 1,400-lb milestones in the equipped bench press.
For context, the next heaviest equipped bench press record after Kolb’s is held by Will Barotti, with a lift of 521.6 kilograms (1,150 pounds). This places Kolb ahead by a staggering 113.9 kilograms (251 pounds).
Kolb’s Powerlifting Journey: A Decade-Long Dedication to the Equipped Bench Press
Jimmy Kolb began his powerlifting journey in 2009, with the equipped bench press always being his primary focus. His impressive record spans over 51 sanctioned competitions, out of which he has secured victory in 42, attesting to his dedication and prowess in the sport.
Jimmy Kolb’s Competition PRs
- Squat (Equipped): 410 kilograms (903.9 pounds)
- Bench Press (Equipped): 635.5 kilograms (1,401 pounds) — Heaviest Lift In Powerlifting History & ATWR
- Deadlift (Equipped): 317.5 kilograms (700 pounds)
- Total (Equipped): 1,093.1 kilograms (2,410 pounds)
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Dominating the Record Books: Jimmy Kolb’s Competition History
Jimmy Kolb’s competition history is as impressive as his recent 635.5-kilogram (1,401-pound) equipped bench press record. His personal bests and analyzed lifts speak volumes about his consistency and commitment to his sport.
Clean Performance: Kolb’s Commitment to Drug-Free Powerlifting
Kolb’s recent feat is remarkable for another reason – it was achieved without the use of any Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs). Evidence of this lies in an official sheet from the competition, shared on Kolb’s Instagram story, which confirms that he was drug-tested.
Chasing Greater Heights: Kolb’s Future Goals
Having secured his place in the annals of powerlifting history once again, Kolb is likely to be setting his sights on an even heavier bench press in the near future. This determination to constantly push his limits further cements his standing as one of the most dedicated and ambitious athletes in the sport.
Overview
Elite powerlifter Jimmy Kolb has redefined the limits of strength by setting a new equipped bench press world record. At the 2023 IPA Tri-Star Bash, Kolb succeeded on his third attempt to bench press 635.5 kilograms (1,401 pounds), breaking his own previous record. The magnitude of this lift surpasses any existing records in powerlifting’s equipped divisions. Notably, Kolb’s achievement is further distinguished as it was performed without the use of any Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs), confirmed by an official document from the competition. This feat bolsters Kolb’s unrivaled status in the equipped bench press realm and sets a new benchmark for future powerlifters.
Featured Image @Kolbstrong (Instagram)
