Powerlifter turned Classic Physique bodybuilder Larry Wheels hosted an exclusive powerlifting meet at his One Gen Gym in Claremont, California, on May 24, 2025. He gathered some of the sport’s biggest names for this private event, including Dan Green, Stefi Cohen, and Tyson Ridenour.
Ridenour first made waves in 2021 at age 19 when he set a record-breaking deadlift of 855 pounds (388 kilograms). On May 28, 2025, Ridenour relayed the results of the events.
At Larry Wheels’ powerlifting event…to hit our best bench press in wraps and best conventional deadlifts.
—Tyson Ridenour
Wheels was excited about Ridenour’s participation in his meet. The event featured only 11 lifters and lasted four hours. Athletes warmed up directly on the competition platform before their attempts, which helped maintain energy throughout the meet.
Wheels reflected on the benefits of such private powerlifting meets, wishing more had been available during his prime. At larger meets, which he and Dan Green often competed in, there were often 10-hour gaps between squats and deadlifts, making it challenging to stay prepared for world-record attempts.
Cohen added that smaller, well-structured meets offer valuable experience for aspiring powerlifters, better preparing them for future competitions.
Bench Press
Ridenour warmed up with lighter loads, reflecting on the challenges of extended wait times before his first attempt.
Not ideal because you’re waiting and cooling down, not in that adrenaline state anymore. You have to balance that.
—Tyson Ridenour
Ridenour stepped to the bench press, increasing the weight to 125 kilograms (275 pounds) for a single rep. He advanced to 152 kilograms (335 pounds) with Wheels at his side to spot. After a single rep, Ridenour finished with a successful max of 163 kilograms (360 pounds).
Deadlift
Though frequently training sumo deadlifts, Ridenour aimed to set a new personal record conventional deadlift.
I’m making all of my attempts…to try to hit our best conventional deadlift in competition.
—Tyson Ridenour
Ridenour felt good despite not eating much, which he believes can be advantageous for deadlifting. He warmed up with a 70-kilogram (155-pound) triple before progressing to a 120-kilogram (265-pound) double.
After adjusting his weightlifting belt, Ridenour overhand gripped the bar and hit 220 kilograms (485 pounds) and 270 kilograms (595 pounds).
After applying weightlifting chalk, Ridenour opened the main session with an effortless 317.5 kilograms (700 pounds). His second attempt featured 329 kilograms (725 pounds), his all-time personal record conventional deadlift.
“700 pounds was my max before this; crushed that as an opener. The second attempt was 725. Scratched my third attempt because I don’t want to push too hard,” Ridenour explained. “I compete too frequently. I want to ensure I’m in good shape and stay healthy.”
Squat
Though Ridenour forewent squats, Blake Wendt accomplished a 227-kilogram (501-pound) bench press and a 312.5-kilogram (689-pound) squat.
Cohen showcased her power with a 102-kilogram (225-pound) bench press, a 161-kilogram (355-pound) squat, and a 213-kilogram (470-pound) deadlift. She attempted a 227-kilogram (500-pound) deadlift but failed to lock it out.
[Related: Your Month-Long Strength Program Designed by an Elite Powerlifter]
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Feature image: @tysonridenour_ on Instagram
