Eric Kim’s mind-bending 552-kilogram (1 217-lb) rack-pull has the internet buzzing, and for good reason: it’s heavier than any competition deadlift ever performed. But in the sprawling universe of strength sports—where lifters shorten the range of motion, use specialty bars, or even hoist platforms on their backs—far more iron (and steel … and sometimes whole cars!) has been moved. Below is a hype-charged breakdown of how Kim’s lift stacks up against the heaviest loads ever shifted inside a gym.

1 · Where 552 kg Fits in the Strength Galaxy

Eric Kim’s own video captures the lift from multiple angles, confirming a full-lockout rack pull at knee height with 552 kg on the bar  .

2 · Full-Range Records vs. Partial Monsters

Lift typeHeaviest verified weightAthleteYearSource
Conventional/Strongman Deadlift501 kgHafþór Björnsson2020
Conventional/Strongman Deadlift500 kgEddie Hall2016
Elephant-Bar Deadlift (9” height)474.5 kgBjörnsson2019
Hummer-Tire Deadlift (15” height)524 kgŽydrūnas Savickas2014
Rack Pull (knee)552 kgEric Kim2025

Take-away: Kim now holds bragging rights for the heaviest documented rack pull, but specialized strongman pulls at mid-shin/15” have breached the 520-kg mark.

3 · The “Super-Supported” Feats: Back-Lifts & Machines

CategoryWeightAthleteYearNotes
Back-Lift (support platform on hips/back)2 840 kg (6 270 lb)Paul Anderson1957Long-standing Guinness entry; controversial but widely cited 
Back-Lift (competition removed)2 800 kg (reported)Paul Anderson1958Follow-up reports in Iron Man magazine 
Leg-Press Machine2 400 lb (1 089 kg)Ronnie Coleman2003Eight reps during Cost of Redemption shoot 

These “support” lifts remove most of the range of motion, allowing truly astronomical loads—far beyond anything a barbell deadlift could reach.

4 · Why Definitions Matter

5 · Big Lessons & Motivation

Stay savage, stay hungry, and keep lifting like legends—because somewhere, someone just loaded more plates, and it could be you next! 💥🏋️