The Most Impressive World Record Bench Presses of All Time

The bench press is more than just a staple lift—it's a test of raw power, grit, and human potential. Over the decades, lifters have pushed the boundaries of what’s physically possible on the bench, leading to jaw-dropping records that continue to inspire athletes and strength enthusiasts worldwide. But what exactly is the world record for bench press, and who are the titans behind the bar?

---

What Is the World Record Bench Press?

The all-time heaviest bench press ever recorded in a sanctioned event is 1,320 pounds (598.7 kg) by Jimmy Kolb in 2023. This lift was completed using a bench press shirt in the equipped division—a specialized suit designed to support the lifter under extreme weights.

But if you're asking about raw bench press records (without supportive gear), the crown currently belongs to Julius Maddox, who benched 782 pounds (355 kg) in 2021. His control, strength, and clean execution have made him a legend in the sport.

---

Equipped vs. Raw Bench Press Records

To understand bench press records, it's essential to differentiate between equipped and raw lifting:

• Equipped Bench Press: Utilizes bench shirts or supportive gear that assists in lifting heavier loads.

• Raw Bench Press: No supportive gear beyond a belt and wrist wraps. This category is often considered a purer display of raw strength.

Both have their place in the lifting world, and both have seen phenomenal feats of strength.

---

Heaviest Bench Press Ever: How Far Can We Go?

From Julius Maddox’s raw dominance to Jimmy Kolb’s monumental equipped lifts, the numbers continue to climb. Some other standout lifts include:

• Will Barotti: 1,105 lbs equipped (2020)

• Scott Mendelson: 715 lbs raw (2005) – stood as the raw record for nearly 15 years

These lifters aren't just strong—they're elite technicians who have mastered the art of the lift down to the smallest detail, from bar path to breathing technique.

---

The Journey Behind Big Numbers

Behind every record is years of dedication, failure, and triumph. I still remember my first 315-lb bench press. It wasn’t clean, and it wasn’t pretty—but it lit a fire. Over the next decade, I trained alongside powerlifters chasing 500, 600, even 700-lb benches. What separated the record-setters wasn’t just brute force, but the patience to build volume, recover smartly, and tighten every detail from setup to lockout.

Seeing someone bench over 1,000 pounds in person redefines your understanding of strength. The plates clang differently. The crowd holds its breath. The moment feels surreal.

---

Notable Names in the Bench Press World

Here are some athletes who’ve helped define the bench press landscape:

• Julius Maddox – Current raw bench king

• Jimmy Kolb – Holds the equipped all-time world record

• Tiny Meeker – First man to bench over 1,100 lbs

• Eric Spoto – Former raw world record holder

• James Henderson – Raw lifting pioneer in the '90s

Each lifter brought a different style and approach, but all contributed to pushing the boundaries of bench pressing.

---

What’s the Most Weight Ever Benched?

Whether you’re asking “what is the heaviest bench press ever done” or “who can bench the most in the world,” the answer depends on your context—raw or equipped. But one thing’s for sure: the records keep climbing.

• Heaviest Bench Press Ever (Equipped): 1,320 lbs – Jimmy Kolb

• Heaviest Raw Bench Press Ever: 782 lbs – Julius Maddox

These numbers represent the pinnacle of human strength in their respective categories.

---

Final Thoughts

The bench press has evolved from a gym bro favorite to a global benchmark of strength. With lifters constantly breaking barriers, it’s only a matter of time before someone approaches the 800-lb raw milestone—or even pushes beyond 1,350 lbs equipped.

Whether you’re a beginner repping out 135 or chasing a 500+ lb max, remember: every record started with someone picking up the bar for the first time.