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Celebrating Joe Middleton: Powerlifting World Champion at Just 14!

At The Christ School, we take immense pride in the achievements of our alumni, and today we are thrilled to celebrate an extraordinary accomplishment by one of our recent graduates, Joe Middleton, who has soared to powerlifting greatness in record-breaking style.

Joe’s journey into powerlifting began less than two years ago in October 2023, and his progress since then has been nothing short of meteoric. Competing in both the USA Powerlifting (USAPL) and the World Powerlifting Congress (WPC) federations, Joe has consistently shattered records while redefining what is possible for young athletes in the sport.

Breaking Records, One Lift at a Time

March 2023: Florida State Record

Joe’s powerlifting debut was in March 2023, where he immediately made his mark. Competing in the 90kg (198 lbs) weight class at age 13, Joe benched an impressive 125kg (275 lbs), setting a Florida State record with USA Powerlifting.

June 2023: National Champion

At Nationals just three months later, Joe elevated his performance to new heights. Competing in the World Powerlifting Congress, he set and broke state and national records with a bench press of 127.5kg (281 lbs) in the same weight class.

August 2023: First World Championship

Joe reached the global stage at the WPC Worlds in August, where he once again smashed records. Now in the 100kg (220 lbs) weight class and just 14 years old, Joe bench pressed 152kg (336 lbs), obliterating the previous world record of 319 lbs. His incredible lift not only claimed the world record but also updated his own national record to match.

November 2023: World Champion and Best Lifter

Proving that he truly competes against no one but himself, Joe returned to the WPC Worlds in November and outdid his own record, bench pressing a jaw-dropping 160kg (353 lbs)—raising the bar (literally!) and setting yet another world record. To top it off, Joe was awarded the prestigious Best Lifter Award, a testament to his dominance and dedication to the sport.

What’s Next for Joe?

Joe is now setting his sights on a new challenge: Full Powerlifting. This transition means he’ll expand his training to include not just bench press but also squat and deadlift. He plans to continue competing in both the USAPL and WPC federations as he takes on this exciting next step in his journey.

Behind the Scenes

Joe’s Instagram handle, @petri_dish_joe, says it all—his trainer jokingly claims he’s “not human” and “made in a lab.” And while it may feel like Joe’s success is otherworldly, it’s a result of extraordinary hard work, natural talent, and unwavering support from his family, trainer, and community.

The world of powerlifting has been a steep learning curve, but Joe’s team is navigating it with determination and enthusiasm. The next step? Sponsorship. Brands like Tyson (hint, hint!) and gym owners interested in supporting a rising star should take note—Joe’s upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

Join Us in Celebrating Joe

Congratulations, Joe, on your phenomenal accomplishments! Your story inspires our students, staff, and community, reminding us of what’s possible with dedication and grit. We are cheering you on as you continue to raise the bar—both on and off the platform.

Keep up with Joe’s journey by following him on Instagram: @petri_dish_joe. Let’s show him the love and support of The Christ School family as he trains for even greater heights!