Lehew looks primed for personal milestones this year.
Blake LeHew has been ranked in powerlifting for many years. A former USA Powerlifting (USAPL) Juniors Raw National Champion (2016) in the 74-kilogram weight class, Lehew now dominates at 82.5 kilograms. A stellar performance at the World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) American Pro, where the athlete achieved an all-time heaviest total of 930-kilograms (2,050.3-lb). Judging by the latest update on his training progress, it looks like LeHev is poised for more outstanding greatness.
On February 26, 2023, Lehiu posted an Instagram video where he successfully pulled off 385-kilogram (848-pound) beltless deadlift. The powerlifter completed his pull from a sumo stance with a traditional grip, and he weighed 190 pounds during the lift, he said. What’s more, type Open PowerliftingThe deadlift matches LeHeve’s all-time raw competition best, also accomplished at the recent American Pro.
“I believe the belt is a thing of the past for deadlifts.”
Aside from the beltless pull, Lehew had nothing else to help him achieve this feat. He leaned entirely on his strength to reach the lockout position.
In the caption of Lehew’s post, he points to an upcoming contest on his calendar. He has been hinting at these plans since early 2023. At the time of this writing, it is unclear which competition he is referring to as he has not given specifics on his social media platforms. The “six weeks out” reference lines up with a date in early April during Easter Weekend 2023.
Since Lehew has been seen mainly as a competitor of the WRPF and United States Powerlifting Association recently, there are various possibilities.
According to the WRPF 2023 calendar of events, the drug has been tested for the WRPF Face Off on April 2, Blood 2, Southwest Showdown and Valley for the Valley on April 15. According to the USPA 2023 events calendar, the only date and competition that roughly matches LeHeve’s timeline is the 2023 USA Powerlifting Battle on the Bionic Barbell on April 2.
Regardless of which event LeHew covers soon, it seems he’s ready to add another illustrious feat to his resume. As one of powerlifting’s current dominant stars he probably shouldn’t expect anything less.
Featured image: @deadliftingorangutan on Instagram