Austin Perkins Sets Squat and Total World Records - Image credit @the74kg Instagram & @SBD Apparel YouTube
Austin Perkins made his debut in the International Powerlifting Federation last year, but he has since become one of the most exciting athletes in the community. So, when he recently appeared at the 2025 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships on January 26th, many were excited to see what he had in store. It is safe to say that Austin did not disappoint, having set new Squat and Total IPF World Records in the 74-kilogram division.
Austin Perkins’ Full Performance Overview
Austin Perkins made his debut at the 2025 IPF Sheffield Powerlifting Championships and definitely made an incredible first impression. Setting two new World Records and placing in the top five of the men’s division proves that he is currently one of the strongest men on earth, pound for pound. He has had some near misses on the bench and deadlift, meaning that he will likely improve on his total in the future.
Squat
Austin Perkins had a perfect outing during the squat session, completing three huge lifts. His heaviest one came out to 323 kilograms (712.1 pounds). Austin completed this lift while only wearing the equipment allowed in the raw division, which was a lifting belt and knee sleeves. It is safe to say that the lift was not easy, as Austin had to fight hard to complete it. However, what matters most is that Austin did manage to set a new world record.
300 kilograms (661.4 pounds)
315 kilograms (694.4 pounds)
323 kilograms (712.1 pounds) — U74KG IPF World Record
*Austin Perkins held the previous U74KG IPF Raw Squat World Record of 311-kg (685.6-lb). He set that record at the 2024 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships.
Bench Press
During the bench press event, Austin Perkins built up to an impressive 200-kilogram (400.9-pound) lift. This equaled his competition PR, as he has lifted the same weight in multiple shows before. Austin then tried to finally push through that limit by adding another 5 kilograms (11 pounds) but was unfortunately unable to successfully complete the lift.
190 kilograms (418.8 pounds)
200 kilograms (400.9 pounds)
Unsuccessful — 205 kilograms (451.9 pounds)
Deadlift
Austin Perkins’ main goal on the deadlifts was to wrap up his competition and set a record-breaking total. He did so with his second pull, having locked out a humongous 320 kilograms (705.4 pounds). The technique that Austin utilized combined a sumo stance and a hook grip. After that, Austin made a huge 12.5-kilogram (27.6-pound) jump, which proved to be just a bit too much.
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305 kilograms (672.4 pounds)
320 kilograms (705.4 pounds)
Unsuccessful — 332.5 kilograms (733 pounds)
Total — 843 kilograms (1858.5 pounds) — U74KG IPF World Record
*Austin Perkins held the previous U74KG IPF Raw Total World Record of 836-kg (1,843-lb) which he set at the 2024 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships.
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: August 17, 2023
Austin Perkins spent the majority of his career competing in the USAPL, winning countless National titles and elite competitions. However, his desire to compete at the highest level pushed him to transition to the IPF, where he has continued thriving. Within less than one year in the federation, Austin has managed to win the World Championships and set Squat and Total World Records. So, with a bit more time, he might even expand his dominance to other events as well.
If you have questions or need clarifications, please leave a comment below, and Vedad will respond promptly.
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.