John Haack Sets New Squat All Time World Record - Image credit @bilbo_swaggins181 Instagram
John Haack is without a doubt one of the greatest powerlifters to ever grace the lifting platform. However, he is far from done, as a lot of records still remain in his sight. One of those has recently fallen when John appeared at the 2024 WRPF POWER SURGE PRO/AM VIII on September 29th. That is because John managed to lock out a huge 365.5-kilogram (805.8-pound) Squat for a new U90KG All-Time World Record.
John Haack’s first squat attempt came out to 325 kilograms (716.5 pounds). This was obviously far below his capabilities, but it ensured that Haack would not be disqualified if he were to miss the remaining two attempts. This looked to be a potential outcome once Haack was unsuccessful in squatting 350 kilograms (771.6 pounds) on his second attempt already.
That didn’t sway John Haack from his initial plan, as he surprised everyone by picking 365.5 kilograms (805.8 pounds) for his final attempt. Being a weight that no one has ever achieved in the raw 90-kilogram weight class, it was clear that Haack was facing a huge challenge. However, he put on a lifting belt, knee sleeves, and wrist wraps, before coming out onto the stage with confidence. Haack then set up a high-bar stance, completing the lift just a few seconds later and setting an All-Time World Record.
*Amit Sapir held the previous U90KG Raw Squat All-Time World Record of 365-kg (804.7-lb), which he set at the 2016 APA Elite Spring Challenge District 7 Regionals.
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John Haack finished the competition with three unsuccessful attempts out of nine. This might come as a surprise, as Haack is usually very efficient with his weight jumps. However, it is important to point out that he tore a callus on one of his hands during the first deadlift, resulting in an unsuccessful lift. Haack fortunately managed to complete his second deadlift, but increasing the weight for his third attempt proved to be too much.
John Haack was poised to shatter the Deadlift and Total All-Time World Records, but a torn callus derailed what could have been a record-breaking performance.
“Just sucks to have pretty much everything go perfect for it to slip out of my hands at the last moment. But more opportunities in the future,” wrote Haack on Instagram.
Squat
325 kilograms (716.5 pounds)
Unsuccessful — 350 kilograms (771.6 pounds)
365.5 kilograms (805.8 pounds) — U90KG All-Time World Record
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: August 17, 2023
John Haack has taken part in 30 sanctioned powerlifting competitions over the course of his decade-long career. As expected, he has won the majority of those, resulting in multiple prestigious titles such as IPF World Championships. He has dominated both the drug-tested and untested divisions, proving that he can go against anyone and under any regulations. Haack has also picked up a passion for Strongman, where he has also displayed incredible strength.
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.