Mackey made this slightly unconventional elevator look easy.
When Joe Mackey makes headlines, it’s usually because the part-time powerlifter/bodybuilder pulls off an incredible feat. His recent show of force was a fitting reason to grab some headlines.
On March 27, 2023, Mackey shared an Instagram video of himself getting a monstrous degree 449-pound hack squat for five reps. The athlete only used a sling and some knee wraps for support and support during the lift. He made sure he wasn’t using resistance bands, which some bodybuilders use to help with the lower part of the lift. It’s undoubtedly a fitting display of strength for someone used to dropping their jaws.
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Due to the positioning of the hack squat machine, athletes performing reps may find it more difficult if their quad strength is not up to par. The hack squat limits how a lifter can recruit their glutes, hamstrings, and upper body to complete a rep. Mackey, on the other hand, is a prime example of his unique quad skills, doing five reps with nearly 1,000 pounds.
In his Instagram post, Mackey writes that he is the strongest International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro League deadlifter in the world. It’s unclear if this moniker is accurate, as bodybuilders don’t flaunt their pulling power in any official or verifiable capacity. However, Mackey could actually take the top spot in the Iron Wars VII deadlift at 910 pounds (910 pounds) personal competition best.
The only other bodybuilding competitor who could match Mackey’s deadlift prowess is the legendary Ronnie Coleman. The icon pulled off 800 pounds (362.8 kilograms) in 2000. However, this also happened while training for a Mr. Olympia title defense.
In 2022, Mackey placed fourth at the Tampa Pro and ninth at the Texas Pro. In the search for his very first Mr. Olympia, Mackey just missed out on a spot.
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It’s unclear what Mackey’s upcoming competition plans are. The athlete hasn’t alluded to upcoming powerlifting competitions as he mainly shares updates on his training progress. Mackey will likely be working hard this spring and summer to qualify for another Olympia bid.
At this rate, one of the world’s strongest bodybuilders could achieve this ambitious feat with another breakthrough.
Featured image: @jmackey33_ifbbpro on Instagram
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