If Liu Weiqiang (China) ever challenges you to a thumb-war… we recommend you sit that one out.

The fitness influencer and world record holder just claimed an intense new Guinness World Records title this February for heaviest deadlift with one finger, after hoisting 319.05 lbs (144.72 kg) into the air with just his middle digit. 

The weights Liu used on the ground

Although the weightlifter is no stranger to breaking records, Liu Weiqiang completed the unusual challenge for the first time on 2 February, and managed to take the record set by Egmond Molina (Aruba) by over 13 lbs (6 kg)!

Close up of the carabiner connecting Liu's weights

To make a weighted device that he could hold with just one finger, Liu Weiqiang connected a carabiner to a thick fitness cable that held six metal plates measuring over 300 lbs (136 kg).

With some assistance from witnesses, they weighed every part of the mechanism before Liu Weiqiang assumed his stance and prepared to deadlift.

Liu's friends watching him perform

Witnesses helping Liu Weiqiang with his attempt

He chose to lift the weights with the middle finger on his left hand, wrapping his digit around the carabiner and grimacing as yanked the weight of a black bear off the ground.

For nearly 10 seconds, he struggled yet held that upright pose, until finally he gently placed the weight back on the ground and accepted congratulations from amazed onlookers.

If One-Punch Man can defeat his enemies with just one hit, imagine what Liu Weiqiang can do with just one finger!

Liu lifting the weight

This new Guinness World Records title is just the latest in a long list of weightlifting accomplishments for the 29-year-old strongman hailing from Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China. 

In 2023, he collected eight new Guinness World Records titles for his performances in the gym, including:

  1. Most ring dips in one minute carrying a 60 lb pack (male) – 36

  2. Most pull ups in one minute with a 80 lb pack – 25

  3. Most ring dips in one minute carrying a 100 lb pack (male) – 20

  4. Heaviest weighted pull up – 240.7 lbs (109.20 kg)

  5. Heaviest weighted tricep dip – 340 lbs (154.20 kg)

  6. Heaviest single repetition weighted ring muscle up (male) – 97.7 lbs (44.30 kg)

  7. Most ring dips in one minute carrying a 40 lb pack (male) – 92.6 lbs (42 kg)

  8. Most knuckle push ups carrying 80 lb pack in one minute – 158.7 lbs (72 kg)

Reflecting on his achievements, Liu Weiqiang said: “Since starting my job, I’ve had less time for fitness, and I’ve felt a bit slack. However, after proving myself through these records, I find fitness to be relaxing and enjoyable.”

He posts his workout videos on his socials, patiently encouraging his followers to work towards achieving their seemingly-insurmountable goals and giving them training tips in the comments.