Julius Maddox is a renowned powerlifter from Kentucky, best known for holding the raw bench press world record at a staggering 782 pounds. His journey to strength sports is especially inspiring; after overcoming addiction, he found a new purpose in powerlifting, becoming an icon for resilience and discipline in the strength community. Maddox set his first world record in 2019 and has continually pushed the limits since, with his sights set on a historic 800-pound bench press. His remarkable journey and record-breaking achievements have made him a source of motivation for others facing similar battles and striving for greatness.

FAVORITE COLLARS: FLEX

Jen Thompson is a renowned American powerlifter and world record holder in the raw bench press at 327.5 lbs. Jen began her powerlifting journey in 1999 and has since become a standout in the sport, demonstrating unparalleled strength and commitment. Originally from Rochester, Michigan, Jen continues to compete in the Open division, showcasing her dedication to excellence and inspiring others with her achievements.

Off the platform, Jen is a middle school teacher, where she fosters growth, resilience, and determination in her students. She is also a respected powerlifting coach, guiding athletes of all levels to achieve their goals and reach new heights. Now living in Charlotte, North Carolina, Jen masterfully balances her career, coaching, and training, embodying the same focus and discipline that define her remarkable powerlifting journey.

FAVORITE COLLARS: PRO + PRO AXLE

LeRoy Anthony Walker was born and raised in Washington state and was a three-sport athlete in football, wrestling, and baseball. LeRoy started hammering the bench at age 13 in his garage gym. By his late teens LeRoy entered his first bench competition and lifted a raw 489, topping 500 later that year. Hooked ever since, LeRoy holds a number of American lifting records and has been undefeated for years while competing in bench competition. Currently He holds the All time American record for Strict curl at 226 lbs. A couple of bench press highlights: 675lb bench at USPA Relentless Detroit, and a 655lb bench record at Muscle Beach Venice (breaking legendary CT Fletcher 's record of 650. LeRoy holds the world record in strict curl at 251lbs/114kg

One of the top 10 raw benchers in the world.

Currently a professional armwrestler.

FAVORITE COLLARS: MACHINE

Brandon "Midwest Kong" Copeland is a former two weight class competitive mixed martial arts champion. He has been a martial artist for 15 years earning his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in 2019 as well as being a Judo State champion. He is known in the fitness industry for his amazing display of strength & endurance on the bench press. At 40 plus years old he became the oldest athlete to rep 225lbs/102kgs 77xs with his unofficial being 81 raw. Kong has made waves by winning CT Fletchers Iron Wars rep competition 3xs in a row and being the oldest competitor.

FAVORITE COLLARS: FLEX

Bobby Strother, based in Albemarle, North Carolina, discovered his passion for lifting weights at the age of 14 while training for high school football. After college, he noticed his bench press numbers climbing rapidly, sparking a deeper interest in strength sports. At 25, Bobby transitioned to powerlifting and entered his first competition in January 2020, where he benched an impressive 534.6 pounds.

Since then, Bobby’s dedication and hard work have propelled his progress to elite levels. By June 2024, he had achieved a remarkable bench press of 662.5 pounds in competition, cementing his status as one of the sport's standout lifters. Bobby’s journey is a testament to his relentless drive and passion for pushing the limits of strength.

FAVORITE COLLARS: FLEX