In March 2020, powerlifting history was made at the USA Powerlifting (USAPL) Arnold Grand Prix by SBD, held during the Arnold Sports Festival. Despite a smaller crowd than in previous years, Blaine Sumner delivered a performance for the ages.
Competing in the 120kg+ equipped division, he shattered multiple International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) world records, including an astonishing 515kg (1,135 lbs) squat—a lift that left the strength community in awe.
Sumner’s Record-Breaking Performance
Despite a smaller crowd at the 2020 Arnold Sports Festival, Sumner delivered an all-time great showing. His final lifts were:
- Squat: 515kg (1,135 lbs) IPF World Record
- Bench Press: 426kg (939 lbs) IPF World Record
- Deadlift: 355kg (782 lbs)
- Total: 1,296kg (2,857 lbs) IPF World Record
Why His Squat Was So Impressive
Unlike some federations where lifters can start directly in position, the IPF requires lifters to walk the weight out of the rack before squatting. Sumner stumbled slightly but managed to regain his composure and complete the lift—a feat that left the strength world in awe.
Athletes React to Sumner’s Insane Feat
Top athletes flooded the comment section of his video to show their respect:
- Ray Williams (IPF world record holder): “Massive lift big homie… Congratulations on crushing it again!!”
- Laurence Shahlaei (Pro Strongman): “Wow you are incredible buddy. Congratulations.”
- Sheri Miles (Elite IPF Powerlifter): “I’m speechless. Too insane for words. You walk it out, stumble, reset, and NAIL IT… WOW WOW WOW.”
With yet another legendary performance under his belt, Sumner continues to cement his place as one of the strongest powerlifters of all time.
