Russel Orhii is making waves in the powerlifting circuit. Just as the dust settled on his recent achievement, where he registered a massive 356-kilogram (785-pound) squat PR in training, he’s already aiming higher. His next goal? A staggering 362.9 kilograms (800 pounds).
The Journey to 785 Pounds
It’s been a fruitful phase for Orhii, with numerous outstanding lifts under his belt in recent training sessions. In the elite 83-kilogram weight class, Russel has been setting and resetting benchmarks, and his monumental squat on August 28th is no exception.
Gearing up for the lift with a barbell brimming with 45-pound plates, the sheer bend of the equipment signaled the heft of the weight. Russel, undeterred, demonstrated impeccable technique, focusing more on form than the daunting weight. With only a lifting belt and knee sleeves for support, he embarked on the squat, showcasing immense strength and determination to lock it out after a gritty five-second rise.
Although his exact weight during the lift remains uncertain, Orhii has hinted at continuing in the 83-kilogram category for 2024.
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Eyes Set on 800 Pounds
While Russel believes he’s ready for the 800-pound squat, he reflects that his intensive deadlift training might be slightly limiting his squat potential. Nonetheless, having already achieved the 800-pound mark in the deadlifting category, replicating this feat in the squat would be groundbreaking.
Russel’s sentiments echo this ambition: “I’m so close to having an 800lb squat AND deadlift… I bet I could hit 800lbs if the deadlift wasn’t taking so much out of me.”
Return to the Competitive Arena
Taking a hiatus from competitions this year, Russel shed light on his strategic move. Historically gravitating towards the USAPL, he now feels the IPF holds richer prospects. Russel aims to clinch his third World Champion title in the IPF, with previous wins in 2019 and 2021.
Examining his illustrious career, Russel’s 18 professional appearances have been predominantly victories, save for one remarkable second-place finish. Notably, his recent 785-pound squat surpasses his competition PR by a significant 35.3 pounds, promising record-breaking performances in future competitions.
Russel Orhii’s Competitive Highlights
During the 2022 USAPL Korea Winter Showdown, Russel cemented several personal records:
- Squat: 340 kilograms (749.5 pounds)
- Bench Press: 195 kilograms (429.9 pounds)
- Deadlift: 350 kilograms (771.6 pounds)
- Total: 885 kilograms (1,951.1 pounds)
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With the 2024 AMP Nationals on the horizon, though the exact date remains undisclosed, Russel has ample time to finesse his form, setting the stage to dominate the 83-kilogram category.
Overview
Russel Orhii, a standout in the powerlifting community, recently achieved a squat PR of 356 kilograms (785 pounds) during training. Unwavering in his ambition, he’s now targeting the 800-pound mark. This rapid progression comes amid rigorous training sessions, with Russel notably mastering the 785-pound squat in the 83-kilogram weight class. Despite his recent training achievements, he believes intense deadlift routines might be curbing his squat potential. After a brief hiatus from competitions this year, Russel is keen on returning, eyeing the 2024 AMP Nationals and a continued presence in the 83-kilogram category.
Featured Image @russwole (Instagram)
