Joe Sullivan - Image Credit @joesullivan_aod Instagram
Joe Sullivan is a world-class powerlifter who has recently scored a new 345-kilogram (760.6-pound) raw deadlift PR, much to the amazement of his fans and followers. Joe is mostly known for his ability to squat, but he recently shared a video on Instagram showing his deadlift skills as well. In the video, Joe can be seen performing the lift using a sumo stance, hook grip, and just a lifting belt from a variety of possible equipment.
The video shows Joe Sullivan standing in front of a bar full of red 25-kilogram plates, with some music blasting in his ears. He takes a deep breath, braces himself, and then attempts the lift. The bar moves off the floor slowly at first, but then it starts to pick up speed. Before long, Joe is standing upright with the bar in his hands, having completed the lift with perfect form.
This is a massive accomplishment for Joe Sullivan, as it is his first deadlift PR in the past seven years. The reason for this was Joe’s nerve damage, which ensued during his very viral video where the barbell bent completely when he performed a massive squat in 2018. That has changed the trajectory of his life and training, but Joe has finally gotten back on the right trail.
“My first deadlift PR in seven years. The last PR was in 2017 at the Kern US Open. And my nerve injury and subsequent nerve damage occurred in 2018.
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And even though the down command was a little quick today, we’re nowhere near done. It’s just a little farther now with a smile on my face. Because, my God, did this feel good.”
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Due to his nerve damage, Joe Sullivan was unable to maintain his stability for a long period of time. Therefore, he found it very difficult to perform the deadlift. However, after turning to some plyometrics and other training methods, Joe finally broke through the barrier and is now motivated to continue improving.
Joe Sullivan has been competing in powerlifting for the past 15 years, where he managed to accumulate 24 sanctioned appearances. Another proof of his consistency is the fact that Joe won 15 competitions, setting numerous World Records in the process.
Joe Sullivan’s Raw Competition PRs
Squat: 385 kilograms (848.7 pounds) — (2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships) — U100KG All-Time World Record
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: August 17, 2023
Joe Sullivan’s deadlift breakthrough will surely motivate him to continue training, as the joy he must have experienced after setting this PR cannot be compared to anything. It is currently unclear when Joe plans to compete, but some more massive PRs seem to be on his way.
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.
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