Phillip Herndon Sets Raw All-Time Squat World Record - Image credit @phillip_herndon Instagram
Phillip Herndon has spent over a decade in powerlifting already, during which he built a reputation as one of the most exceptional squatters in the world. In turn, his performances are always highly anticipated, and it was no different with his most recent appearance at the 2025 WPPL Pro Invitational. The competition took place on March 1st in Columbus, Ohio, and Herndon took part in the raw 125-kilogram weight class. He ended up performing one of the most impressive lifts ever, locking out a 420-kilogram (925.9-pound) Raw Squat All-Time World Record.
In order to set a new All-Time World Record, Phillip Herndon had to exceed 412.5 kilograms (909.4 pounds). However, he went a step further, loading 420 kilograms (925.9 pounds) onto the barbell. Having competed in the raw division, Herndon was only allowed to use a lifting belt, knee sleeves, and a pair of wrist wraps.
After loading the incredible weight, Phillip Herndon walked out on the competition floor, determined to claim a new record. He got under the bar, took a deep breath, and started his lift. After unracking the weight, Phillip started slowly descending with the bar on his back, dropping down to the required depth. He then started pushing forcefully, which resulted in a very comfortable-looking squat. In turn, Herndon received all three white lights from the judges.
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Phillip Herndon had an exceptional performance in the remainder of the competition as well, which is an amazing feat considering how much energy he expended on the squat. His heaviest bench press came out to 240 kilograms (529.1 pounds), which was just 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds) short of his previous competition PR. Herndon also locked out an impressive 365-kilogram (804.6-pound) deadlift using a conventional stance. He tried out a sumo stance on his final attempt but was unfortunately unsuccessful.
Phillip Herndon’s Full Performance
Squat: 420-kg (925.9-lb) — U125KG All-Time World Record
Bench Press: 240-kg (529.1-lb)
Deadlift: 365-kg (804.6-lb)
Total: 1,025-kg (2,259.7-lb) — Competition PR
Phillip Herndon is easily one of the most complete powerlifters in the world, having competed and set records in the raw, raw/w wraps, and the equipped powerlifting divisions. He has also competed in multiple age classes, never failing to reach the top, especially when it comes to the squat. So, it is clear that Phillip has one of the most impressive resumes in the powerlifting community.
Phillip Herndon made his debut in powerlifting in 2013. He has been extremely active in the sport ever since, making appearances in each of the following years. So, he has taken part in a total of 48 sanctioned powerlifting competitions over the course of his career, winning over 30 of them.
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: August 17, 2023
Phillip Herndon has some more appearances planned in the near future, as he is on the roster to compete at the elite 2025 Ghost Clash 4. The competition will take place on April 12-13 in Miami, Florida, with Herndon taking part in the Raw/W Wraps division. So, he might add yet another All-Time World Record to his list of achievements.
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Vedad is a journalist specializing in strength sports, with three years of experience covering powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, strongman, armwrestling and bodybuilding. He is a lifelong fitness enthusiast, passionate about all aspects of strength training. Vedad's in-depth knowledge of training methodologies and dedication to constant research fuel his insightful and engaging reporting. He works hard to deliver accurate content while continuously seeking to improve his craft.
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