In a historic display of raw power, former World’s Strongest Man Hafthor Björnsson has officially broken the all-time deadlift world record with an astonishing 505-kilogram (1,113-pound) lift.
The feat, achieved at the Eisenhart Black Competition in Bavaria, Germany, on July 26, 2025, not only cements Björnsson’s dominance in the world of strength sports—it silences years of debate about his place among the strongest lifters in history.
But how did he manage to break his own record from 2020—and do it under even tougher conditions? Let’s break down what happened, why it matters, and what’s coming next.
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Strongman-Style, Maximum Power
Björnsson’s record-setting pull took place in a formal, invitation-only strongman contest, eliminating the controversy surrounding his previous 501-kilogram lift performed in his home gym five years ago. That lift had been sanctioned but lacked the competition setting some fans insist is critical for legitimacy.
This time, the lift was official—and the setup wasn’t perfect.
According to his coach, Sebastian Oreb, the Eleiko platform used at the Eisenhart event was carpeted, disrupting Björnsson’s typical approach where he rolls the bar before lifting. “To pull 505, everything needed to be perfect—and it wasn’t,” said Oreb in a post-event video breakdown. Despite the platform issues that altered his setup, Björnsson still locked out the bar with authority.
The lift followed Strongman-style rules, allowing for a deadlift suit, lifting belt, and figure-eight straps. While some purists may critique the use of equipment, it’s standard for these types of strongman competitions and distinguishes them from traditional powerlifting.
The Moment That Made History
The crowd at Eisenhart Black held its breath as Björnsson approached the bar, eyes fixed on the 1,113 pounds of calibrated plates.
As the announcer fueled the energy, Björnsson gripped the bar, rolled it slightly, and began the pull. The bar stalled momentarily near the knees, but with a powerful hip drive, he surged to lockout and received the down command from the judge.
Fireworks exploded, the crowd erupted, and Björnsson’s team stormed the platform in celebration.
This record surpasses not only his previous 501-kilogram effort but also the former in-competition record of 500 kilograms set by Eddie Hall at the 2016 World Deadlift Championships.
Why Ventsislav Dimitrov’s Lift Didn’t Count
While powerlifter Ventsislav Dimitrov matched the 505-kilogram mark in 2023, his lift wasn’t recognized as a world record. The reasons?
- He used lifting straps, which are banned in powerlifting competition.
- He pulled in a sumo stance, which is prohibited in strongman contests.
In contrast, Björnsson’s lift was conventional—feet inside shoulder-width—and executed within the legal framework of strongman events.
This removes all ambiguity. Björnsson now holds the undisputed world record in conventional deadlift, done in competition.
A Lifelong Goal Finally Realized
This lift was years in the making.
Björnsson had long targeted 505 kilograms as a milestone. He nearly broke it earlier this year at the Arnold Strongman Classic using a Rogue Elephant Bar but missed the 501-kilogram attempt. The Elephant Bar has a different flex pattern compared to standard bars, requiring a unique pulling strategy.
Speaking to Men’s Health earlier this year, Björnsson made it clear he wasn’t done chasing records:
“I definitely have some other records in mind,” he said. “It’s all about opportunities and timing.”
Next Target: 510 Kilograms
If you think 1,113 pounds was the peak, think again.
Björnsson has already announced that he plans to attempt a 510-kilogram (1,124-pound) deadlift at the 2025 World Deadlift Championships, part of the Giants Live Strongman Open in Birmingham, England, on September 6.
That gives him just over five weeks to recover, adapt, and peak again for what could be the next barbell milestone in strength history.
And given his performance in Germany, few are betting against him.
What This Means for Strength Sports
Björnsson’s record sends a strong message: Strongman athletes are pushing the limits of human performance in ways that continue to surprise even seasoned fans.
His return to form after stepping away from competition for boxing—and now reclaiming dominance in strongman—shows an unprecedented level of athletic longevity.
It also challenges rival lifters to match or exceed his power, potentially ushering in a new wave of record attempts from competitors in both strongman and powerlifting.
The Legacy of “The Mountain”
Once known mainly as “The Mountain” from Game of Thrones, Björnsson has evolved far beyond his TV fame. With this lift, he’s reasserted his place among the all-time greats of strength sports.
Whether or not he hits 510 kilograms in September, this moment marks a turning point.
No longer just a controversial strongman with a home-gym record, Björnsson is now, officially and undeniably, the strongest deadlifter in the world.
And he might not be done yet.
