If you’re paying attention to powerlifting, August 7-8 should also be reserved as the Henrico Sports and Events Center in Richmond, VA will host the 2026 American Pro meet. This event, sanctioned by Powerlifting United, has only been around for a few years, but already has a reputation as an event where history will be made and world records will be broken.
“The American Pro represents the highest level of competitive powerlifting and one of the best stages in the world for the sport,” said PLU President Ana Perez. “It brings together many of the strongest men and women in the world.”
According to Dennis Bickmeier, executive director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority, Richmond’s fans and powerlifting community are equally excited to serve as the host city.
“We are always looking to bring new and unique experiences to Henrico, and this championship is a perfect example of the kind of world-class competition our facility was built for. We can’t wait to welcome these incredible athletes and introduce fans to something brand new at our facility.”
POWERLIFTING AND PRODUCTION
This meet is highly anticipated by fans and athletes alike, but it’s not just about the sheer weight being lifted. There is a special feeling when you step on this platform.
“The American Pro has helped take powerlifting to the next level with professional-level production, storytelling and athlete experience so that the athletes truly feel like they are stepping onto a world-class stage.”
There are two days of competition. Friday, August 7 will be Open Day, where a mix of amateurs, Masters and even some pro-caliber lifters will come together to push themselves and each other to reach new levels of personal excellence. Perez said PLU wants to make this event as special as possible for the sport, which is why participation options have been expanded.
“This is the first time we have made registration open to everyone with no qualification requirement. They will get the full American Pro experience and will share the platform with some of the best powerlifters in the world.”
Saturday, August 8 is the main event of the weekend. This day is reserved for those who have been invited to compete based on their past world-class performances.
Perez said, “Invitations are based on several factors. We look at DOTS and overall competitive excellence, and we also want to see some battles and athletes with stories that deserve a podium. Our roster includes world champions, national champions, record holders, lifters who have been paving the way for decades, and the underdogs with a comeback story to tell.”
Some notable athletes who have lifted at the American Pro in the past include Brianny Terry, who deadlifted a then-world record 641.6 pounds in 2023. She is now an IFBB Pro League Women’s Physique athlete. Some other names that may be familiar to fans include Hunter Henderson, John Haack and Danny Grigsby Jr.
PRO DAY COMPETITORS ROSTER
The Open Registration schedule is still in development, but the pro day schedules are below, in the order they were provided by PLU.
- Alana Hynes D’Aquino
- Aleksandra Szymczykowska
- Andreas Home
- Anthony Hobaica
- Blake Lehew
- Brittany Bowles
- Ceejay Byam
- David Raymond
- Drake Stephens
- Edward Blair
- Jawon Garrison
- Jimbo Cooper
- Johannes Haack
- Kalil Zaky
- Keri Smith
- Leonetta Richardson
- Madeleine Forberg
- Maria Ramos
- Melanie Jones
- Micaela Petrigliano
- Michelle Buchanan
- Nelly Dulcien
- Nick Forte
- Omar Villegas
- Philip Herndon
- Rondell Kelley
- Ronnell Leftwich
- Sara Sobak
- Susan Salazar
- Whitney Baxley
As you can imagine, glory and records are motivating enough on their own, but there’s even more at stake than that. There will be a $25,000 prize pool, with payouts going to the top five men and women. Beyond the prize money and production value, powerlifters and fans who have been to PLU meetings can attest that the sense of community and empowerment makes them a standout in the sport. Perez mentioned that even if you’ve been to other PLU events, the American Pro will be a little further along.
“There’s really nothing like the American Pro. If you want to see power sports at the highest level, with athletes chasing records and career-defining moments, the American Pro is the place to be. Even if you’ve never followed powerlifting before, you’ll leave a fan behind.”
Muscle & Fitness will be part of the coverage of this event. More details to follow as the event gets closer.
For more information about Powerlifting United, visit the US Pro event websiteAnd follow them on Instagram.
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