Perkins blasted through the 74KG class, winning gold by 23.5 kilograms
The 2024 International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Classic World Championships in Druskininkai, Lithuania, witnessed a treat of powerlifting spectacle in the Men’s 74KG class on June 17, 2024.
Austin Perkins of the USA scored a new IPF raw squat world record of 311 kilograms en route to the overall gold medal-winning IPF raw world record total of 836 kilograms.
Perkins was an overwhelming favorite, standing atop the podium with 23.5 kilograms between him and the silver medalist, Kjell Egil Bakkelund of Norway. Take a look at Perkins’ new world record squat in the video below, courtesy of the IPF’s Instagram page:
Perkins’ world record squat did not come easy. Outfitted in wrist wraps, a lifting belt, and knee sleeves, Perkins descended into the hole after receiving the lift command from the judge without issue.
The ascent, however, was not as smooth but never seemed in doubt. Halfway up, Perkins stalled slightly before vigorously shaking his head in the affirmative to convey to the onlooking crowd that the weight would certainly reach lockout. Moments later, it did.
Perkins reracked the weight and leaped off the platform to see if the judges approved the lift. Upon confirmation, he roared in triumph, knowing the record books would feature his name again.
Perkins went a perfect nine-for-nine on competition day. Below is his full performance:
2024 IPF Classic World Championships Results — Austin Perkins (USA), 74KG
- Squat
- 290 kilograms
- 305.5 kilograms
- 311 kilograms — IPF Raw World Record
- Bench Press
- 187.5 kilograms
- 195 kilograms
- 200 kilograms
- Deadlift
- 300 kilograms
- 317.5 kilograms
- 325 kilograms
- Total — 836 kilograms — IPF Raw World Record
You can watch the event live on The Olympic Channel and the IPF YouTube channel. Select sessions will be broadcast live on Eurosport, and highlights will air on Eurosport, Eurosport World, and CBS Sports.