Here are some top powerlifting athletes to watch at the Paralympics, known for their exceptional strength, determination, and inspiring performances:
1. Siamand Rahman (Iran)
- Weight Class: Over 107 kg
- Achievements: Rahman is widely regarded as one of the greatest Paralympic powerlifters of all time. Before his passing in 2020, he set world records and was the first Paralympian to lift over 300 kg, with a record lift of 310 kg at the Rio 2016 Paralympics.
2. Lucy Ejike (Nigeria)
- Weight Class: Up to 61 kg
- Achievements: Ejike is a powerhouse in women’s Paralympic powerlifting, with multiple gold medals across four Paralympic Games and world records in her class. Her consistency and dominance make her a favorite.
3. Amalia Pérez (Mexico)
- Weight Class: Up to 61 kg
- Achievements: Pérez has earned several Paralympic gold medals and world records in her long and successful career, making her one of the most decorated powerlifters in the sport.
4. Lei Liu (China)
- Weight Class: Up to 65 kg
- Achievements: Lei Liu is a dominant figure in the men's powerlifting category. He has claimed multiple gold medals and set world records, particularly in the 2016 Rio Paralympics, where he lifted 221 kg.
5. Sherif Osman (Egypt)
- Weight Class: Up to 59 kg
- Achievements: Osman is a three-time Paralympic gold medalist and world record holder. Known for his consistent excellence, he’s one of the top lifters in his category and a crowd favorite at every competition.
6. Paul Kehinde (Nigeria)
- Weight Class: Up to 65 kg
- Achievements: Kehinde, known for his rivalry with Lei Liu, has earned gold medals in major competitions, including the Paralympics, and continues to break records, making him a top competitor in his category.
7. Jordan Topkins (USA)
- Weight Class: Up to 65 kg
- Achievements: One of the rising stars in the sport, Topkins has shown tremendous potential and is seen as an athlete to watch in upcoming competitions.
8. Fatma Omar (Egypt)
- Weight Class: Up to 61 kg
- Achievements: Omar is a multiple-time Paralympic champion and record holder. Her domination in the sport has made her a legend in Paralympic powerlifting.
9. Jamil Elshebli (Jordan)
- Weight Class: Over 107 kg
- Achievements: Competing in the heaviest weight class, Elshebli has consistently performed at a high level and is a contender in every competition he enters, challenging records set by powerlifting icons.
10. Bonnie Bunyau Gustin (Malaysia)
- Weight Class: Up to 72 kg
- Achievements: Gustin is one of Malaysia’s top powerlifters, known for setting world records and earning gold medals in various international events. His future in the sport is bright, and he’s poised to be a top competitor in upcoming Paralympic Games.
These athletes not only represent the pinnacle of Paralympic powerlifting but also serve as inspirations for overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.
