Following months of preparation, Hafthor Bjornsson and Mitchell Hooper have clashed against each other in one of the greatest strength duels ever seen. Both had a goal of setting a new Deadlift World Record at the 2026 Enhanced Games on May 24th in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds) proved to be too heavy for both of them, with Bjornsson getting the bar to his knees.
Hafthor Bjornsson’s Deadlift World Record Attempt
Hafthor Bjornsson came into the 2026 Enhanced Games as the Deadlift World Record holder, having set the mark of 510 kilograms (1,124.4 pounds) back at the 2025 World Deadlift Championships. So, he looked to further improve the record by 5 kilograms (11 pounds) and went to great lengths to achieve it, including clearing out his schedule for the entire first half of 2026.
Hafthor Bjornsson opened up with 425 kilograms (937 pounds), which moved extremely easily for him and increased everyone’s optimism about the potential record. After a break, he took on a 475-kilogram (1,047.2-pound) deadlift, which did not slow him down much either. With two successful lifts under his belt, Hafthor’s next jump had to be 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds).
After putting on his deadlift suit, lifting straps, and a lifting belt, Hafthor Bjornsson made his way to the competition floor to attempt the heaviest conventional deadlift ever achieved. In his usual fashion, the ‘Mountain’ rolled the bar toward his shins and started the pull just moments later. He managed to get the bar off the floor quickly, but he got stuck once it reached knee-height. Unfortunately, after a few moments of struggle, Bjornsson lowered the bar down and walked away with an unsuccessful lift.
Watch Hafthor Bjornsson’s record attempt here:
Mitchell Hooper’s Deadlift World Record Attempt
Although many believe that Hafthor Bjornsson is the only man on earth who is able to deadlift well over half a ton, Mitchell Hooper also stepped up to the challenge at the 2026 Enhanced Games. His presence added a competitive spirit to the show, as his rivalry with Hafthor electrified the atmosphere at the venue. Moreover, being the reigning World’s Strongest Man, Hooper was the prime candidate to take on the record holder.
Mitchell Hooper’s first attempt was a bit lighter than Hafthor’s, as he locked out 400 kilograms (881.8 pounds) to kick off his performance at the Enhanced Games. On his second attempt, Hooper decided to go for 440 kilograms (970 pounds), which moved a bit slower than expected. However, he managed to lock it out and went back to prepare for the final attempt.
With 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds) loaded onto the barbell, Mitchell Hooper gave his all but still ended up failing to get the barbell fully off the floor. He did seem unwell after the attempt but quickly received assistance from people nearby. The main takeaway from Hooper’s performance was just how heavy the bar was, as he is one of the greatest deadlifters in the world and he still failed to get nearly any movement with the weight. On the other hand, it should be noted that Hooper has had an intense season leading up to the Enhanced Games, having won both the 2026 Arnold Strongman Classic and World’s Strongest Man.
Watch Mitchell Hooper’s attempt here:
Related: Hafthor Bjornsson Believes He Can Deadlift 550-kg (1,212.5-lb): “I am Capable of That”
It is unclear what exact plans Hafthor Bjornsson or Mitchell Hooper have for the Deadlift World Record, but it seems that the 510-kilogram (1,124.4-pound) mark could remain untouched for the foreseeable future. Hafthor’s attempt proved that he is definitely capable of exceeding the record, but it remains to be seen if he is motivated enough to continue training specifically for the deadlift, especially considering some rumors that he is eyeing an appearance at the 2026 Rogue Invitational.
