Joe Sullivan has spent the last decade establishing himself as one of the most formidable powerlifters in the world. His remarkable strength and expertise have consistently set him apart from his competitors, underscoring his unwavering devotion to the sport. Nevertheless, his success came with its fair share of obstacles. Seven years ago, he suffered a sciatic nerve injury that threatened to derail his career. Even Joe himself doubted that he could make a full recovery and achieve his peak performance once again. Despite the difficulties, Joe persevered and trained smartly to reclaim his physical form. He demonstrated his progress at the 2023 WRPF METROFLEX BATTLE FOR THE YARD 8, held on March 25th in California.
Joe Sullivan participated in the 100-kilogram weight division and established a new All-Time Raw Squat World Record in the same category. He also held the previous record, having achieved a squat of 385-kilograms (848.8-pounds) at the 2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships. However, Joe has now surpassed his previous record, but also made significant progress in other events.
Streaming Joe Sullivan’s squat Below:
View this post on Instagram
Joe Sullivan managed to lift 225 kilograms (496 pounds) in the bench press event, which is his heaviest since 2018. While it wasn’t a competition personal record, this lift shows that Joe is steadily improving and getting closer to his previous best.
*Joe Sullivan’s personal record in the bench press event during a competition is 245-kg (540.1-lb), which he achieved at the 2018 IPL Midwest Open.
The deadlift event was next, and Joe Sullivan pulled off a massive 327.5 kilograms (540.1 pounds). Although this wasn’t a personal record in competition, it was his heaviest deadlift since 2017.
*Joe Sullivan’s personal record in the deadlift event during a competition is 340-kg (749.6-lb), which he set at the 2017 USPA CETC US Open Powerlifting Championships.
Joe Sullivan achieved his greatest overall appearance yet at the event, with a total accumulated weight of 938 kilograms (2,067.9 pounds). This resulted in a new competition personal record for him in the Total event, and Joe was overwhelmed with emotion, shedding a few tears of joy.
Joe Sullivan’s Full Performance
- Squat: 386 kilograms (850.9 pounds) – U100KG All-Time World Record & Competition PR
- Bench Press: 225 kilograms (496 pounds)
- Deadlift: 327.5 kilograms (540.1 pounds)
- Total: 938 kilograms (2,067.9 pounds) – Competition PR
Joe Sullivan expressed his immense joy and gratitude after his stunning performance at the 2023 WRPF METROFLEX BATTLE FOR THE YARD 8. The powerlifter had spent the last seven years battling a sciatic nerve injury and had doubts about his ability to regain his peak physical form. However, his perseverance paid off as he set a new 386-kilogram (850.9-pound) All-Time Raw Squat World Record and made impressive progress in other events.
Joe Sullivan’s emotional response to his performance was evident as he shared his thoughts on social media. He expressed his gratitude for being able to surpass what he thought were his limits after years of frustration, defeat, and failure due to his nerve injury. Joe cried tears of joy and explained that the moment was well-deserved after his hard work and dedication. He also acknowledged that there is no end until one decides there is one and that he and his team are just getting started up this mountainside.
Streaming the bench press:
View this post on Instagram
Streaming the deadlift :
View this post on Instagram
Joe Sullivan made a significant achievement in his powerlifting career by securing his 25th sanctioned appearance and setting a new world record. His triumph will undoubtedly be etched in his memory, accompanied by feelings of pride and joy. Sullivan’s remarkable feat has also sparked a new wave of inspiration and determination within him, fueling his drive to push his limits and continue his training. Given his exceptional track record, it is highly likely that Sullivan will continue to break records and set new milestones in his future competitions.
Courtesy Image @joesullivan_aod (Instagram)
