Working part-time to fund his dream, Singaporean, 18, breaks powerlifting world record with 273kg deadlift

Muhammad Hazrul Abdul Malik balanced polytechnic studies, gruelling training sessions and a part-time job to fund his powerlifting dream. On Aug 21, the 18-year-old Singaporean achieved the biggest lift of his career, breaking the world record with a 273kg deadlift at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting Championships 2026 in Sun City, South Africa.The previous world record stood at 271kg.Muhammad Hazrul, a second-year Temasek Polytechnic student studying Architectural Technology and Building Services, also finished second overall in his category with a total lift of 613kg — comprising a 220kg squat, 120kg bench press and 273kg deadlift.The record-breaking performance, however, came after a difficult start to the competition.One of his squat attempts was disqualified because he did not squat low enough, while he suffered severe cramps in his calves and arms during warm-up, Berita Harian (BH) reported.After his opening 260kg deadlift attempt, Muhammad Hazrul also vomited.