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El Paso Today
By the People, for the People
Macomb Man Sets New Weightlifting Record
Matt Sowers completes 428-pound atlas stone lift, surpassing previous world record
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Matt Sowers, a weightlifter from Macomb, Illinois, set a new record in the 80-kilogram (176-pound) weight class over the weekend by completing a 428-pound atlas stone lift. The record-setting performance took place in El Paso, Illinois, where Sowers also surpassed the previous world record of 415 pounds during warmups.
Why it matters
Sowers' achievement marks a significant milestone in the sport of strongman competition, where athletes demonstrate their raw power and strength by lifting massive stones and other heavy objects. His record-breaking lift in the 80kg division has cemented his place among the elite in the sport.
The details
The atlas stone lift requires competitors to hoist a large, boulder-like stone over a bar positioned four feet off the ground. Sowers' lift of 428 pounds set the new standard in the 80kg weight class for both drug-tested and non-drug-tested events. He had also surpassed the previous world record of 415 pounds during his warmup lifts, but was unable to complete a 440-pound attempt after two tries.
- The record-setting lift took place on Saturday, February 8, 2026 in El Paso, Illinois.
The players
Matt Sowers
A weightlifter from Macomb, Illinois who set a new record in the 80-kilogram (176-pound) weight class by completing a 428-pound atlas stone lift.
What they’re saying
“My goal was to reach 440 pounds, but I was unable to complete that lift after two attempts.”
— Matt Sowers (kbur.com)
What’s next
Sowers has announced his retirement from competitive weightlifting following his record-breaking performance.
The takeaway
Matt Sowers' historic atlas stone lift of 428 pounds has cemented his legacy as one of the strongest competitors in the 80kg weight class, demonstrating the incredible physical capabilities of elite strongman athletes.
