The 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals were held from September 14-17, at the Memphis Renasant Convention Center in Tennessee, and marked the premier competition that the federation has to offer. As such, it did not disappoint, offering the greatest powerlifters in the USA. One that definitely proved his worth was Austin Perkins, who put up one of the greatest performances in the history of powerlifting. He took part in the 75-kilogram weight class, won it with ease, and also set new Squat and Total All-Time World Records.
Being the Raw Nationals, Austin Perkins was only allowed to use a pair of knee sleeves and a lifting belt for his squat attempts. However, he did not need anything else to lock out a mind-blowing 313.5-kilogram (691.1-pound) squat. Furthermore, despite the squat being 4.2x heavier than his bodyweight, Austin managed to complete it with almost no struggle and thus set a new All-Time World Record.
The previous U75KG Raw Squat All-Time World Record belonged to Austin Perkins beforehand as well, but it stood at 305 kilograms (672.4 pounds), which he lifted at 2023 USAPL P3 Grand Prix. So, while it is not new, Austin made a substantial improvement, raising the bar by 8.5 kilograms (18.7 pounds).
Austin Perkins was successful in attempting all nine lifts across the squat, bench, and deadlift. So, his Total came out to 851 kilograms (1,877.2 pounds), marking his second All-Time World Record of the day.
None other than the legendary Taylor Atwood held the old U75KG Raw Total All-Time World Record, having accumulated 838.5 kilograms (1,848.6 pounds).
For reference, Austin Perkins’ Total at the 2023 USAPL Raw Nationals ended up being 50.5 kilograms (111.3 pounds) heavier than what the silver medalist finished with. So, Austin’s dominance at the moment is unparalleled.
Squat
287.5 kilograms (633.8 pounds)
303.5 kilograms (669.1 pounds)
313.5 kilograms (691.1 pounds) — U75KG Raw All-Time World Record
Bench Press
185 kilograms (407.9 pounds)
195 kilograms (429.9 pounds)
200 kilograms (440.9 pounds) — Competition PR
Deadlift
302.5 kilograms (666.9 pounds)
327.5 kilograms (722 pounds)
337.5 kilograms (744 pounds) — Competition PR
Total — 851 kilograms (1,877.2 pounds) — U75KG Raw All-Time World Record
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: August 17, 2023
Austin Perkins has taken part in 23 sanctioned powerlifting competitions so far, with 16 of those being victories. So, he has already built an impressive resume, despite still being in his early twenties, especially with two All-Time World Records attributed to his name. With all of this taken into consideration, it is exciting to think about what Austin will accomplish in the future.
Vedad is a lifelong fitness enthusiast, who is especially passionate about all things Strength related. Vedad loves to write about strength sports just as much as he likes to train. Worked hard to gain his knowledge, but is still in a constant chase for improvement.
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